North: Can Hoiberg handle pressure with Bulls?
With new coach Fred Hoiberg in the fold for the Chicago Bulls, it's time to move forward from the Tom Thibodeau mess for the good of all concerned.
I did find what was said in the news conference intriguing, and what wasn't said was even more intriguing.
General manager Gar Forman has known Hoiberg for 20 years and seems to believe he's a good fit for the Bulls. Hoiberg's offense in the Big 12 Conference was touted, but his defense was not.
A source close to Iowa State told me Fred was a pretty good coach, but former Iowa State coaches Tim Floyd and Larry Eustachy were heads and tails better at the X's and O's than Hoiberg. Keep in mind that's his opinion, but it is an opinion I respect.
Hoiberg mentioned his team won the Big 12 tournament twice and that's a strong point, but what wasn't stressed was Kansas won the Big 12 Conference every year and Iowa State, like every other team in the conference, couldn't win it.
The shocker to me is Hoiberg's health. Thibodeau is actually healthier than Hoiberg.
Believe me, I'm not being flippant here, but shouldn't there be some concern? He's had two heart surgeries, one as recent as April, and commented in the news conference that his son could hear his heart's mechanical valve clicking from across the room.
He's only 42 and I hope and pray that he never has another issue, but the situation can't be totally overlooked.
Hoiberg now has to convince his team he will be preparing them to win a championship, and was hired for his knowledge more than just his likability.
Supposedly the offense will be much improved, and hopefully he will bring in a quality defensive coach to help him, but I'm not sure the defense will be as good. We will just have to wait and see.
It looks like the Bulls will return with their nucleus, but even with a few additions they will still have the second-best team in the East behind Cleveland. As long as LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love are there, it will be tough for the Bulls to beat them, and I think it would be unfair to blame Hoiberg if the Bulls don't bring home the bacon.
No, the hiring of Hoiberg was more about peace and quiet based on complete cooperation and trust. It's similar to when Ozzie Guillen left the White Sox and the affable but inexperienced Robin Ventura took over. (By the way, how's that working out for everyone?)
Good luck Fred. You are in a terrific town with some great basketball history. Thibodeau couldn't beat LeBron and he's gone. The pressure starts now. Hope you can handle it!
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