Gordon off the bench a working formula for Bulls

Ok, so you all know I decried Scott Skiles' firing. Number 1, I just plain like the guy. Number 2, he's done what he can with a team that was in the abyss when he came there. And Number 3, I just plain like the guy. (Do you get it yet?)

However, I have got to say that interim coach Jim Boylan is doing some kooky things that are for now working their magic. The biggest is that he has taken what many would say is a team leader in Ben Gordon and sat him on the bench as a reserve. Yep, you heard that right. Gordon is no longer a starter, yet in today's game versus the Knicks, it meant 11 of 15 from the field and finishing with 25 points. The last time Gordon was in this role, he was a rookie in 2004, and he won the sixth man of the year award.

This works in a lot of ways. One, it allows for the guys on the floor at the start of the game to distribute a little better and not have to lead on Gordon for the bulk of the scoring. Two, it gives Gordon more rest than usual, which could be key should the Bulls make a serious run at playoff contention over the next several months while other team's superstars wear down come springtime. Lastly, it does give the team a needed dimension that they didn't have before--and forces them to play more as a team.

Hmmm, come to think of it, this guy Boylan may be just as good as Scotty. However, don't give him coach of the year quite yet. Yes, he's undefeated, but that's only 2 games, and they haven't been against exactly teams that are world-beaters. (I think I could get a double double against the Knicks).

Still, give him credit. It's never an easy task for an interim coach to do anything, and he's made immediate beneficial moves. He may be removing that interim title should he keep winning...

Photo Source: AP

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Gordon off the bench a working formula for Bulls

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