Bulls Watch: Late meeting possible

Here's a glance at some of the latest developments as the Bulls search for a new coach and prepare to court top free agents:

Late meeting possible: The Bulls had an opportunity to meet with Boston assistant Tom Thibodeau during the six-day break before the NBA Finals, but they didn't want to be pressured into making a quick decision and declined. A source suggested the Bulls had a change of heart and met with Thibodeau after all Wednesday night in Los Angeles.

If he doesn't work out, the Bulls will stick with their original list, which has Maurice Cheeks leading Lawrence Frank and Kevin McHale. Ex-Cleveland coach Mike Brown could conceivably join the mix, while Lakers assistant Brian Shaw is considered a longshot.

Thibo held hostage: With the NBA Finals about to begin, there were reports that New Orleans was insisting on an answer from Thibodeau by Thursday about its head coaching job. If he says no, the team would hire Portland assistant Monty Williams.

Is that a dirty trick by the Hornets? Well, if the talk is true, it seems obvious they're trying to get a jump on the competition by making Thibodeau decide before he gets a chance to interview with the Bulls. Another rampant rumor suggests the Bulls are Thibodeau's first choice.