Pippen Ain't Easy
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Fixing Fred Hoiberg’s Coaching Misfires with the Bulls

By Michael RENE KANOY

Mar 23, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg looks on from the sidelines during the first half against the New York Knicks at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 23, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg looks on from the sidelines during the first half against the New York Knicks at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Bulls struggled against small-ball lineups this past season under Fred Hoiberg.
Jan 20, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) drives on Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose (1) during the second half at the United Center. The Golden State Warriors won 125-94. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /

The Bulls must combat small-ball units better than they did last season

The Bulls struggled against small ball teams, which ran layup lines against Derrick Rose, Aaron Brooks and Doug McDermott with Gasol just camped in the paint waiting for a potential rebound.

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For Gasol to close games as a non-defending center, the Bulls lost plenty of fourth quarters. The front office’s job in this respect is to re-sign Joakim Noah, draft a shot-blocking machine or get a free agent who can be the workhorse paint defender.

Hoiberg must pay attention to defense at the low post and not just tell players to “stay focused” or “play hard”. His offense won’t cut it if the opponents can score a layup right away. We’ve seen the Bulls be nonchalant about opponents running a layup after each score.

Keeping at least two players who can at least slow down the next score of opponents and also shoot is something management and Hoiberg should keep a priority with their summer adjustments.

Next: Not everyone on the roster should be shooting

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