Charlotte Bobcats at Chicago Bulls preview -- Game 16

by Ben Swanson on Jan 21, 2012 2:02 AM EST

Today's Tunes:

"Mashin' On The Motorway" - DJ Shadow

Game Overview: Reigning MVP Derrick Rose is out with a toe injury, but that didn't seem to hamper the Bulls against the Cavaliers last night, tearing apart Cleveland by 39 points. Rip Hamilton starts at shooting guard and could pose a problem due to the height advantage over Kemba Walker. Even more of an issue will be the Bulls' frontcourt power. Carlos Boozer and Joakim Noah easily outclass the Bobcats' frontcourt, in most, if not all, aspects. Noah doesn't have great offensive firepower, but it should be interesting to see Biyombo defend one of the more talented rebounders in the league. Gerald Henderson faces a tough matchup against 6'9" Luol Deng. Deng's a very good defender and a pretty versatile scorer on offense. Much of good defense is played by positioning, but you have to wonder how much height and length can factor into Deng's play on offense. On defense, Henderson will have a much more difficult time than against Orlando. Deng's much quicker than Hedo Turkoglu, so driving to the paint won't be easy. And Deng's length and defensive quickness make him a tough defender closing out on jump shots. Could be a low-scoring night. For everyone.

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Biyombo vs. Noah. I can't wait!

If Mullens’ shot is on tonight (I’m hoping he regains his touch after the extended rest), we can pull Noah out of his comfort zone to start, and then Biyombo can sap his energy once he subs in.

With Boozer, tonight would be perfect to start a more physical DJ White at PF. I wouldn’t even be opposed to sliding Thomas into SF for one night only to match up better with Deng, and then bringing Walker off the bench (I know, I know). I’m just saying we have the personnel to match up with Chicago’s starting five; it would be unfortunate if Silas didn’t at least try to maximize his lineup efficiency.

I’m not expecting a miracle; I’m just looking forward to an exciting game against the best team in the NBA right now. Give me 20+ minutes of Biyombo, keep White off the DNP-CD list, and the rest will be gravy for me.

"People are gonna respect the Panthers, and I want what I do as a quarterback to be scary. I want people to be in fear. I want it, and I’m gonna get it."
- Carolina Panthers Franchise Quarterback

by Newsinz on Jan 21, 2012 9:10 AM EST reply actions

This is going to be a slaughterfest.

But might be fun to watch anyway.

by Aisander D on Jan 21, 2012 10:18 AM EST reply actions

Watch they come out flat, despite not playing in 3 days. That’s bad preparation which means bad coaching. Good luck Cats.

"You ain't supposed to be smiling and giggling after we lose. I've never had the mentality of losing in my whole life and for a person to tell me you can't win them all, that's a loser's mentality." - Cam Newton

by D.W.G. on Jan 21, 2012 10:36 AM EST via Android app reply actions