Bulls in Five

In Search of a Coach
by Dan & Patrick O'Neil

One: First Game Without Skiles
Pete Myers filled in as interim coach and there was no change in Bull's performance. Another blowout. San Antonio win 79-94. Myers said he'd met with GM Paxson and the message was to let the Bulls have fun on the court. Myers said they looked good in practice yet got too tight in the actual game. Sounds like he knows what needs to happen — they just need to do it. Godspeed.

Two: Jim Boylan Petitions for Job
Skiles' most trusted assistant and longtime friend, Jim Boylan, petitioned Paxson for the coach job and he got it. We'll probably be seeing him around for at least a little while if not the rest of the year. And if he does well... maybe he could keep the job. We'll see.

Three: Impressive Games
If beginnings count, Boylan's on his way — undefeated as head coach. In his first game in the hot seat — against the Milwaukee Bucks at home — Boylan asked Ben Gordon to give up his starter's role and come off the bench to give the stumbling team an offensive lift. Bull's won 103-99. Bull's also beat the Knicks on Sunday with Gordon leading the victory, scoring another 25 points in another strong performance. On New Year's Eve they lost in OT 112-110 against the Orlando Magic. Gordon again came up big with 39 points in the loss.

Four: Coach Pippen?
Scottie Pippen wasn't big on Skiles. With him gone, Pippen may return as a coach. "I didn't come there to play for Skiles," Pippen said. "I didn't like him, didn't like him as a player." Sam Smith notes of Scottie Pippen's self-evaluation: "What's my disadvantage? No NBA coaching experience? [Scott] Skiles' record with the Bulls wasn't that great. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to do what you've done your whole life. I've played basketball, run teams and won. I'd like to see Pippen as coach.

Five: Looking Ahead
Wednesday at Charlotte at 7pm. Thursday in Chicago against Portland at 8pm. Hosting Sacramento Saturday at 8:30pm. Let's hope for two wins in three games.

Bears in Five & Pucks in Five

...are on vacation. Happy new year!