K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune writes:
Omer Asik continues to impress in his recovery from the fractured fibula that ended his strong rookie season with the Chicago Bulls during the Eastern Conference finals.
Asik posted 12 points and eight rebounds Monday as Turkey downed tournament favorite Spain 65-57 in EuroBasket play in Lithuania. Spain played without Pau Gasol. Turkey clinched a berth in the tournament’s second round with the victory. Spain already had advanced with previous victories.
Asik is averaging 6.5 points and 7 rebounds while shooting 62.5 percent in the tournament.
Earlier Monday, Luol Deng had 28 points and 14 rebounds as Great Britain prevented Poland from advancing to the second round with an 88-81 triumph.
Deng’s play isn’t surprising. He did the same thing last summer. Asik’s isn’t necessarily that surprising either…but it’s a major relief to know he has (seemingly) fully recovered from that fractured fibula.
Assuming the Bulls can’t make a significant free agent signing — let’s say a Jason Richardson — they must either improve from within or make one or more trades (this assumes the team, as constructed, isn’t championship-ready). Omer’s continuing improvement can either make the Bulls better or pave the way for a trade (either of Asik himself, Asik and other parts, another big man, etc.).
Deng’s playing good for GB, but he has been quite disappointing on the Bulls. In his entire time in CXhicago, he has never stepped up and he has the ability to do so. he’s just happy hiding in the shadows.
if you truly believe that, then you probably shouldn’t be allowed to write a Hoops Blog…
Luol Deng is one of the most under-rated players in the league, and may only sit behind Melo, Pierce, Durant, and Lebron in the small forward hierarchy. he’s the definition of a two way player, and delivers through versatility. he’s one of the league’s top defenders, can rebound, score, and is confidently displaying a reliable three point shot.
and you said Deng hasn’t “stepped up.” i’d say he’s done quite a bit of that, and has routinely harassed the opposing team’s best player and scorer on defense. Deng is the perfect third option for any team, and i think he knows that. he’s not trying to take over a team and be something he’s not, a la Russell Westbrook. Deng has settled comfortably into a niche that he fills perfectly. while there were grumblings in the past about Deng not living up to his contract, i doubt you’ll find any Chicago fan that’s disappointed in his play after this past season…
And a Bulls target sg (JR smith) signed in China. But a agent thinks there’s a chance exceptions will be made for the Chinese Basketball league’s rule. http://www.chicagonow.com/chicago-bulls-talk/2011/09/exceptions-to-cba-ruling-possible/
Would u want JR smith?
Huh? Did you watch the games last season?