What To Watch This Summer Now That The Bulls Are Done: An SB Nation Chicago Roundtable

The SB Nation Chicago staff discuss what they are looking forward to watching now that the Blackhawks and Bulls have both been eliminated from their respective playoff.

Luol Deng Injury: Bulls Forward Will Meet With Team To Discuss Olympics

Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng has maintained that he plans to play in the 2012 Summer Olympics despite his wrist injury. The Bulls have not prohibited him from doing so, but they naturally have concerns. According to general manager Gar Forman, they're going to sit down with Deng in the near future and hash out all of his options.

"We're going to sit down with Luol some time in the next week," Forman said Tuesday afternoon. "Obviously, the season ended, and we've had Derrick (Rose) and his (knee surgery) over the weekend. Our biggest concern for Luol -- and I know the Bulls' fans concern and Luol's concern -- is his health. We haven't had a chance to sit down with him at length, but we will in the next week and go from there."

Related: Derrick Rose ACL surgery: Bulls team doctor speaks on 8-12 month prognosis

So Deng's summer plans may not be settled just yet.

For more on the Bulls, stick with SB Nation Chicago and make time to read Blog a Bull. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Derrick Rose Injury Update: Rose Undergoes Surgery

After a disappointing end to a season that began with such promise, the Chicago Bulls can at least begin to look to the future, as Derrick Rose underwent surgery on the knee that he injured during the opening game of their playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers.

According to reports from Neil Hayes at the Chicago Sun Times, the surgery was a success and Rose should make a full recovery from the Torn ACL:

Bulls guard Derrick Rose underwent knee surgery to repair his torn anterior cruciate ligament Saturday morning at Rush University Medical Center, the Chicago Sun-Times has learned.

Dr. Brian Cole, the Bulls’ team physician, performed the ACL surgery using a graft from Rose’s patellar tendon, a commonly used procedure on young athletes.

A source said there were no complications or surprises during the surgery, which lasted about an hour. "His knee looked great," the source said. "It’s what you’d expect from a 23-year-old physical specimen."

For more on the Bulls, stick with SB Nation Chicago and make time to read Blog a Bull. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

2012 London Olympics: C Joakim Noah To Play On French National Team

K.C. Johnson of The Chicago Tribune is reporting that Chicago Bulls C Joakim Noah will indeed play in the 2012 London Olympics despite his recent ankle injury:

Joakim Noah said he still plans to play for the French national team in the London Olympics. #Bulls

— K.C Johnson (@KCJHoop) May 11, 2012

Noah sprained his ankle in the pivotal Game 3 of the playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers and was forced to miss the remaining games of the series, which the Bulls eventually lost, 4 games to 2.

In the regular season, Noah led the team with 9.8 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game, as well as a whopping .223 win shares per 48 minutes, according to Basketball-Reference:

For more on the Bulls, stick with SB Nation Chicago and make time to read Blog a Bull. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Chicago Bulls Notebook: An Obituary

The Chicago Bulls saw their season come to an end in the first round of the NBA Playoffs on Thursday night with a 79-78 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 6. SB Nation Chicago editor Ricky O'Donnell would rather remember the good times.

NBA Playoffs 2012, 76ers Vs. Bulls: Despite Wrist Injury, Luol Deng 'Looking Forward To Playing The Olympics'

For the past few months, Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng has been playing with torn ligaments in his left wrist, and now that the Bulls have been eliminated from the 2012 NBA Playoffs, he's looking forward to playing in the 2012 London Olympics this summer. Deng postponed surgery on his wrist in order to give Chicago their best chance at getting to the NBA Finals this season, so it's hard to be too upset if he decides to play for host country Great Britain in the Olympics. Sure the Bulls are in a tough spot heading into next season -- as Derrick Rose will still be on the mend from his ACL tear -- but Deng is genuinely excited about the opportunity to fulfill a childhood dream:

"I just know that I'm looking forward to playing the Olympics. I'm excited about it, something I wanted to do since I was a kid and I'm going to prepare myself for it," he explained. "I've got to see how my wrist feels throughout the Olympics, how it feels from now going into the Olympics and right after the Olympics, I'll make the decision, whether my wrist is good enough that I don't need the surgery or if I need it, so I haven't really ruled out not getting the surgery or getting it.

I just haven't made that decision. Just know that I've got the Olympics ahead of me. Since I was a kid growing up, it's something I always wanted an opportunity to be a part of and the fact that it's in my hometown that I grew up in, in a country that gave me the opportunity to even be here, I'm looking forward to it."

(via Aggrey Sam of CSN-Chicago).

Deng gave the Bulls everything he had this past season, and there is no doubt he will be prepared to do the same after the Olympics are over, so if you start to feel angry that he's not prioritizing his relationship with the Bulls over a once-in-a-lifetime to play for the host country in the Olympics, just refocus that outrage towards Carlos Boozer and his "thats' all that matters, yo" comments.

For more on the Bulls, stick with SB Nation Chicago and make time to read Blog a Bull. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Carlos Boozer Says He Played Well, Calls Bulls Season A Success And Decides 'All That Matters, Yo'

The injury-ravaged Chicago Bulls were eliminated from the 2012 NBA Playoffs on Thursday night in Philadelphia, and they gave the game away in the final seconds, but Carlos Boozer didn't exactly come off as torn apart in the post-game interviews. His choice of words wasn't really the problem, either. It was his choice of opinions. Sure Bulls would have likely taken down the Philadelphia 76ers if Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah and Luol Deng hadn't suffered debilitating injuries, but that's not where Chicago's least favorite power forward decided to take the conversation after his 1-11 shooting performance in the elimination game.

Instead, Boozer chose to focus on how well he felt the season went personally, and why the top seed in the playoffs is more important than winning the NBA Championship. Nick Friedell of ESPN Chicago relays Boozer's poorly thought out post-game quotes :

"I thought I played well, especially with the kind of season it was," Boozer said, when asked to asses his second season in Chicago. "We had the best record again in basketball, won our division again, had the top seed again, that's all that matters, yo."

To be fair, Boozer clearly cared about the outcome of the game and the untimely end to the season. In the heat of the moment, as the Bulls squandered their fourth quarter lead against the Sixers, Boozer produced this enduring image of the Chicago Bulls' 2012 NBA Playoff run:

Maybe next time he can find some better thoughts to get off his chest in the post-game presser. That's if there is a next time for Boozer in Chicago, of course.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Final Score: Chicago Loses 79-78 On Last-Second Free Throws

The Chicago Bulls' season is over after losing 79-78 to the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night in Game 6 of their seven-game series. The Bulls looked like they were on their way to forcing a Game 7 late in the fourth quarter, but free throws proved be the deciding factor in the game's final seconds.

With the chance to put it away late, the Bulls simply didn't come through. Leading 78-75 with 25 seconds left, the Bulls allowed Thaddeus Young to knock down an easy jumper to trim the lead to one point. Needing to foul, the Bulls somehow put the ball in the hands of Omer Asik:

Easily one of the team's worst free throw shooters, Asik promptly missed both shots to give Philadelphia a clear opportunity to put away the game, and the series.

Now down just one point with seven second remaining, Philadelphia's Andre Iguodala raced down the court after Asik's second missed free throw without ever being stopped, eventually getting fouled at the basket by Asik. With the game on the line, Iguodala knocked down both free throws to give the 76ers the lead with 2.2 seconds remaining.

The Bulls couldn't pull of the miracle buzzer-beater, and now they'll have the entire summer to wonder what this season might have looked like if it weren't for those darn injuries.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update: Chicago, Philadelphia Tied After Three Quarters

Trying to force a Game 7, the Chicago Bulls and Philadelphia 76ers are tied, 63-63, through three quarters on Thursday night. The Bulls trailed by 12 points with just five minutes remaining in the third period, but they proceeded to close out the quarter on a stunning 16-4 run.

In the first seven minutes of the third quarter, the Bulls scored just seven points and it almost looked like the door was closing early on a brutally disappointing season. Then the team finally found some offensive rhythm, and suddenly we're going into the fourth quarter with a blank slate as the Bulls try to push things to a Game 7, which would go down in Chicago.

Richard Hamilton and Luol Deng are leading Chicago with 17 points apiece, plus C.J. Watson has six points and eight assists. Jrue Holiday leads Philadelphia with 14 points.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update, Game 6: Bulls Trail 76ers 48-40 At Halftime

The Chicago Bulls trail the Philadelphia 76ers 48-40 at halftime of Game 6 on Thursday. Chicago is behind in the series 3-2 and is hoping to avoid becoming the fifth No. 1 seed in NBA history to lose to a No. 8 seed in the first round of the playoffs.

Luol Deng leads the Bulls with 10 points and five rebounds on 5-of-7 shooting. Guard John Lucas III came off the bench to score seven points for Chicago in the first half. Power forward Taj Gibson has five points, three rebounds and two blocks.

Jrue Holiday has 12 points on 3-of-4 shooting for the 76ers. Lou Williams has come off the bench for Philly to score 11 points.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

VIDEO: Omer Asik Hits Jump Shot With Foot On Three-Point Line

Omer Asik is starting at center for the Chicago Bulls in Game 6 in place of the injured Joakim Noah tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers, and early in the first quarter Asik did something we haven't seen during his two years in Chicago: he hit a really long jump shot. With his foot on the three-point line!

Check out the video:

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update, Game 6: Bulls Trail 24-22 After 1st Quarter

The Chicago Bulls need a victory today to avoid becoming the fifth top seed in league history to lose in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. The Bulls need to win tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers to force a Game 7 on Sunday at the United Center. After a quarter in Game 6, the Bulls trail the Philadelphia 24-22.

Luol Deng leads Chicago with eight points on 4-of-5 shooting. Richard Hamilton has seven points for the Bulls on 3-of-5 shooting. C.J. Watson has two points and five assists for Chicago through the first period.

Jrue Holiday has nine points on 3-of-3 shooting for the 76ers. Small forward Andre Iguodala has three points for Philadelphia.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Joakim Noah Injury: Bulls Center Will Be Available To Play In Game 6

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah suffered a severe-looking ankle sprain during the Bulls' Game 3 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers and has not played since. After warming up before Thursday's pivotal Game 6, Noah has apparently been cleared to play.

Bulls PR said Noah is available to play. Whether he will remains to be seen.

— K.C Johnson (@KCJHoop) May 10, 2012

Omer Asik gets the start at center. Pregame reports had Noah moving gingerly. His entrance in the game still seems suspect.

Chicago needs a victory at the Wells Fargo Center tonight to force a Game 7 on Saturday in Chicago. The Bulls trail the best-of-seven series 3-2 and are trying to avoid becoming the fifth top seed in the NBA Playoff history to lose in the first round.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

NBA Sixth Man Of The Year Award 2012: Three Chicago Bulls Players Place In Top 12

To the surprise of absolutely no one, shooting guard James Harden of the Oklahoma City Thunder won the NBA's 2012 Sixth Man of the Year award on Thursday. Harden had a marvelous season for OKC, averaging over 16 points per night while posting a very impressive PER of 21.13.

The Chicago Bulls certainly had an affect on the vote, though. Three Bulls players from the esteemed "Bench Mob" finished in the top 12 of voting, led by power forward Taj Gibson.

Taj Gibson finishes 6th, including one first-place vote, for 6th Man of Year won by James Harden. Korver finishes 10th. C.J. Watson 12th.

— K.C Johnson (@KCJHoop) May 10, 2012

Gibson averaged 7.7 points and 5.3 rebounds for Chicago while posting a PER of 16.90. Korver averaged 8.1 points a game while giving Chicago a 43 percent shooting for three-point range. Watson averaged 9.7 points per game for Chicago.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Chicago Bulls Injury Report For Game 6: Taj Gibson Says 'I'm Playing'

The Chicago Bulls are banged up at nearly every position, but they have still put the pressure on the Philadelphia 76ers to close out the opening round 2012 NBA Playoffs series on Thursday night to avoid a Game 7 back in Chicago. A huge factor in the game will be the status of several key contributors for Chicago. Star point guard Derrick Rose is done with a torn ACL, but Luol Deng continues to soldier on with torn ligaments in his left wrist.

Meanwhile, center Joakim Noah and power forward Taj Gibson have been dealing with ankle injuries. Noah declined to address reporters in morning shootaround (in which he did not fully participate) and was spotted limping around by K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune. Head coach Tom Thibodeau lists Noah as a game-time decision, but the Bulls have been pretty loose with that term all year.

As for Taj Gibson, he did participate in shootaround and is expected to play as the Bulls try to fight off elimination for a second time. Gibson sprained his ankle in Game 5, but K.C. Johnson captured an unequivocal declaration that Gibson will play in Game 6:

Taj: "I'm playing." #Bulls

— K.C Johnson (@KCJHoop) May 10, 2012

Game Date & Time: Thursday, May 9 6:00 p.m. CT

Location: Wells Fargo Center; Philadelphia, PA

TV: Comcast SportsNet

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, 76ers Vs. Bulls Game 6: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Chicago Bulls will try to avoid elimination on Thursday against the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 6 of the teams' first round series in the 2012 NBA Playoffs.

Joakim Noah Injury: Bulls Center Hoping To Play In Game 6

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah hasn't played in days, but he told Bulls announcer Chuck Swirsky that he's feeling better and he hopes to play in Game 6, according to K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune. Noah sprained his left ankle in Chicago's Game 3 loss to the Sixers and he's missed the past two games of the series.

Joakim Noah, who declined interview requests, tells @swirsk054 on team web site he's "feeling better" and he's "hoping" he can play Game 6.

— K.C Johnson (@KCJHoop) May 9, 2012

Over the first three games of the series, Noah averaged 15.0 PPG on 73 percent shooting, 9.3 RPG, 3.0 APG and 1.3 BPG as arguably the team's best performer. Omer Asik has started in his absence, but the team has sorely missed his unique playmaking skills on offense.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Taj Gibson Injury: Bulls PF Hopes To Play Despite Ankle Sprain

Despite suffering a sprained ankle against the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 5, Chicago Bulls power forward Taj Gibson hopes to play in Game 6 as his team tries to once again stave off elimination. The Bulls are trailing 3-2 to the Sixers in the seven-game series after winning on Tuesday, but they still need two more victories to make it to the second round.

Speaking with reporters on Wednesday, Gibson assured them that he'd make his absolute best effort to help the Bulls out when they face Philadelphia later this week. Teddy Greenstein of the Chicago Tribune has the quotes:

I'll do everything in my power to play. I have all summer to lay back if we lose, so I'm going to lay it on the line.

Over five postseason games, Gibson has averaged 8.6 PPG, 6.8 RPG and 1.6 BPG in 21.8 MPG. He's been especially active on defense over the past two games, accumulating eight blocks and 19 rebounds. Hopefully the ankle injury won't slow down Gibson on Thursday when the Bulls try to once again extend their season.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers: Game 5 Highlights Are A Taj Gibson Mixtape (Video)

The Chicago Bulls held off the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night to extend their opening-round 2012 NBA Playoffs series to Game 6 in Philly, and most of the credit is due to Taj Gibson, Ronnie Brewer, Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng. The Bulls ground out a 77-69 win, and nobody did more grinding than Gibson. The young forward came in off the bench and worked in tandem with Brewer to stifle the 76ers' offense for most of the night. Timely rotations and heady play helped Chicago limit Philadelphia to 32.1 percent shooting (25-78 FGs) while Boozer and Deng took care of the offense by combining for 43 points on 19-39 shooting.

CSN-Chicago has a nice collection of highlights from the game, and the quartet plays a central role in nearly every clip. Everything from Gibson's turned ankle to his huge hustle plays are included, and by the end you might feel like you've just watched a Taj Gibson mixtape. Check it out:

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs: Bulls Persevere Past Philly To Force Game 6 (Chicago Bulls Notebook)

The Chicago Bulls grinded out a 77-69 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night to stave off elimination. SB Nation Chicago editor Ricky O'Donnell writes it wasn't pretty, but the Bulls will take it.

NBA Playoffs 2012, Bulls Vs. 76ers: Ugly Win Keeps Chicago Alive, Ronnie Brewer And Taj Gibson Shine On Defense

The Chicago Bulls are on the brink of elimination, but they pulled off a grinding 77-69 win against the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday to keep their first round 2012 NBA Playoffs series going even without Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah. Carlos Boozer (19 points, 13 rebounds, six assists) and Luol Deng (24 points, eight rebounds) provided the scoring punch for an otherwise impotent offense, while everyone chipped in for a dominating defensive effort in which the Sixers only managed 32.1 percent shooting.

At SB Nation's Bulls blog, Blog-A-Bull, the credit was handed out to just about everyone, but Taj Gibson and Ronnie Brewer made the biggest impact on the defensive end:

Taj Gibson and Ronnie Brewer were everywhere in this game, getting to those 50/50 balls (though they were outrebounded as a team yet again) and proving that the effort gap could stay on their team's side. Asik and Lucas contributed to that overall dominance in that intangible category, but Brewer had 3 steals, and Gibson had 4 blocks in the 2nd quarter alone. Unfortunately Gibson also became the latest Bull to be felled by injury, spraining his ankle pretty badly in the second half. Taj did return to the game, and though it brought some emotion, it was with little else: his injury didn't look as bad as what Joakim Noah suffered in game three, but we've seen similar sprains in the past where a player can come back in that game but is unable to the next after a night of swelling.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Final Score, Game 5: Chicago Survives With 77-69 Victory

It certainly wasn't pretty, but the Chicago Bulls got the win the team so desperately needed on Tuesday night at the United Center. Chicago prolonged its season with a 77-69 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers to push the best-of-seven series in the first round of the 2012 NBA Playoffs to 3-2. Game 6 is Thursday night in Philadelphia.

Luol Deng was brilliant for the Bulls in victory. Deng had 24 points and eight rebounds and make multiple cluth three-pointers in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. Carlos Boozer had 19 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists in the win on 9-of-20 shooting. Taj Gibson, who injured in ankle in the third quarter but would return, added eight points, seven rebounds and four blocks off the bench.

Philadelphia shot just 32 percent from the field. Jrue Holiday scored 16 points in the loss.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update, Game 5: Chicago Leads 57-48 Going Into 4th Quarter

The Chicago Bulls lead the Philadelphia 76ers 57-48 through three quarters tonight at the United Center in Game 5. Chicago trails Philly in the first round playoff series 3-1 and needs a victory tonight to keep the season alive.

Small forward Luol Deng leads the Bulls with 15 points and six rebounds on 7-of-14 shooting from the field. Power forward Carlos Boozer has 17 points, seven rebounds and five assists on 8-of-15 shooting from the field. Ronnie Brewer and Richard Hamilton each have six points for Chicago.

Philadelphia is led by Andre Iguodala, who has nine points. Lou Williams has eight points for the 76ers. Lavoy Allen has nine points and six rebounds off the bench for Philly.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update, Game 5: Chicago Leads 35-26 At Half

The Chicago Bulls closed the second quarter on a 10-2 run to grab a 35-26 lead at halftime of Game 5 tonight at the United Center. Philly scored just 10 points in the second quarter. Chicago trails in the first round series 3-1 and needs a win tonight to extend its season.

Luol Deng has 11 points and five rebounds on 5-of-8 shooting at the half to lead Chicago. John Lucas III came off the bench to add five points. Taj Gibson has been a defensive menace, finishing the half with two points, three rebounds and five blocks.

Lavoy Allen has six points for the 76ers. Lou Williams and Elton Brand each have five points for Philadelphia at the half.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update, Game 5: Chicago Leads 17-16 After 1st Quarter

The Chicago Bulls need to win three straight games to avoid becoming the fifth No. 1 seed ever to fall to a No. 8 seed in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. After one quarter in Game 5, Chicago leads 17-16.

Small forward Luol Deng leads the Bulls with nine points after hitting a three-pointer to put the Chicago on top with just seconds remaining in the first quarter. Richard Hamilton has four points for Chicago. Ronnie Brewer scored two points in the first quarter.

Philadelphia ended the first quarter with six turnovers. Lavoy Allen is 3-for-3 from the field with six points. Elton Brand has four points. Evan Turner has two points and already has seven rebounds for the 76ers.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Update: Starting Lineups Announced For Game 5

The Chicago Bulls enter Game 5 of their first round series in the 2012 NBA Playoffs against the Philadelphia 76ers with their backs against the wall. The Bulls are down 3-1 and need a win tonight at the United Center to avoid an unexpectedly long summer vacation.

The starting lineups are in for Game 5. Let's take a look:

Bulls: Asik, Boozer, Deng, Rip and Watson. Philly: Iguodala, Hawes, Brand, Turner , Holiday

— chuck swirsky (@swirsk054) May 9, 2012

It comes as no surprise that center Joakim Noah is again out after spraining his ankle in Game 3 in Philadelphia. It's also no secret that Luol Deng and C.J. Watson are hurting and playing at less than 100 percent.

The Bulls certainly have a tall task in front of them tonight.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Are The Bulls Finished? An SB Nation Chicago Roundtable

The Chicago Bulls face elimination tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 5 at the United Center. Can Chicago win without Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah?

Joakim Noah Injury: Bulls C Out Of Starting Lineup For Game 5, 'Most Likely' Just Out

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah suffered a severely sprained ankle in Game 3 of Chicago's first round series against the Philadelphia 76ers, and he is still out for Game 5. Head coach Tom Thibodeau stated Noah is "most likely out" for the game, but Omer Asik will make the start and Noah is still in a walking boot, so K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune is reporting that Noah is out for Game 5.

Related: Chicago Bulls Notebook: Bulls On Brink Of Elimination After Game 4 Loss

The Bulls are on the brink of elimination from the 2012 NBA Playoffs after losing Derrick Rose to an ACL injury and then Noah to his ankle issue, so once against Chicago will have to play short-handed against a Sixers team that holds a 3-1 series lead going into Tuesday's Game 5 at the United Center. Here's a video of Noah's injury, in case you missed the play:

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Chicago Bulls Rumors: 'Zero Percent Chance' Carlos Boozer Is Amnestied After Season, According To K.C. Johnson

2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers Game 5: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Chicago Bulls are down 3-1 to the Philadelphia 76ers.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers: Tom Thibodeau Discusses Game 4 Loss

Following the Chicago Bulls' 89-82 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 4, Tom Thibodeau addressed the media and spoke about his belief that they could still turn things around. He touches on his team's effort level -- they're "fighting" but still could work harder -- as well as the Bulls' frontcourt in the absence of Joakim Noah. Video of his post-game press conference is below.

Related: NBA Playoffs 2012: Bulls On Brink Of Elimination After Game 4 Loss In Philly (Chicago Bulls Notebook)

The series resumes on Tuesday night in Chicago. The Bulls are expected to be without Joakim Noah, who is dealing with a severely sprained ankle.

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Luol Deng Injury: Deng Will Play In Olympics, May Miss Part Of Next Season

Luol Deng was born in the United Kingdom, and thus is eligible to play for the country's national team. He recently toldESPN Chicago that he's "definitely" going to put off surgery on the torn ligament in his left wrist in order to compete in the 2012 Summer Olympics, a decision which could potentially keep him out for the beginning of the 2012-2013 season.

Deng noted that the injury could heal without surgery, which would obviously be the best of both worlds for him and the Bulls. But he did have the same injury in his right wrist in his rookie season, and he was forced to have it surgically repaired. Regardless, Deng is intent on playing in the Olympics either way, and when asked if the Bulls had any input on his final decision, he said, "It's my decision, it's totally my decision."

For more on this story, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull.

VIDEO: Carlos Boozer Throws A Really Bad Pass

Bulls VP of Basketball Operations John Paxson Has Heart Surgery

Bulls executive John Paxson had minor heart surgery, and may be unable to attend Game 5 of Chicago's first round series with the Philadelphia 76ers.

NBA Playoffs 2012: Bulls On Brink Of Elimination After Game 4 Loss In Philly (Chicago Bulls Notebook)

The Chicago Bulls are a game away from elimination after losing Game 4 to the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday afternoon. SB Nation Chicago editor Ricky O'Donnell examines the swift nature of the Bulls' downfall.

2012 NBA Playoffs, 76ers Vs. Bulls: Chicago And Philadelphia Bloggers Reflect On Game 4

The Philadelphia 76ers beat the Chicago Bulls 89-82 in Game 4 on Sunday, and now a Bulls team that entered the postseason among the favorites in the Eastern Conference is fighting to survive.

Over at Blog a Bull, the mood is understandably somber in the wake of Sunday's final. There were some concerns over officiating, but they also conclude that whatever mistakes the officials made probably didn't impact the results.

I rarely ever bring officiating up, but it was noticeably poor tonight. A couple late calls back-to-back showed a failure to give the Bulls defense as much of a leeway on contact as they did for Philly. And then when the Bulls were playing clock management down late, the refs missed CJ Watson trying to give a foul (to be fair, he could've tried harder) and then an extremely touchy call on Asik as the shot clock expired.

But it likely wouldn't have mattered anyway. Without Rose and now Joakim Noah (and half of Deng), the Bulls do not have more than enough to win.

Related: Bulls Vs. 76ers Final Score: Chicago Loses 89-82, Nears Brink Of Elimination

At Liberty Ballers, they're talking about Jrue Holiday and Evan Turner, who weren't very good in Game 4 after outstanding performances in games two and three. Those struggles don't figure to continue, though:

Should we be worried about this performance? Not really, because although the two of them made their share of mistakes, both attacked the basket, got to the foul line, and were integral to the win even without their best offensive games. The pair missed so many layups that it seemed like they had switched sneakers with Spencer Hawes, who happened to be a layup-hitting FIEND. They combined to shoot 4-14 on layups. That's a decent percentage if they're shooting layups from the opposite rim. It's an anomaly and likely won't happen often.

Game 5 of the Sixers-Bulls series is scheduled for Tuesday night in Chicago.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Joahkim Noah Injury: Bulls Forward Won't Play In Game 5, According To Report

According to K.C. Johnson of the Tribune, Chicago Bulls forward Joakim Noah will be sidelined for Game 5:

Joakim Noah ditched his crutches Sunday in favor of a large walking boot to protect his severely sprained left ankle, which also will force him out of Tuesday's Game 5 at least.

Related: Bulls vs. Sixers, 2012 NBA Playoffs: Sixers take game four 89-82, Bulls one game from elimination

Noah suffered the ankle sprain in Game 3 and may not be able to return at any point during the current series. Omer Asik started in Noah's place for Game 4.

Game 5 is set to start at 8:30 p.m. CT in Chicago on Tuesday night.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Final Score: Chicago Loses 89-82, Nears Brink Of Elimination

At the beginning of the postseason, the Chicago Bulls had grand dreams of winning the NBA championship with superstar point guard Derrick Rose leading the way. After losing Rose in the first game to an ACL tear, they're now on the brink of elimination after losing a third consecutive game on Sunday afternoon.

With Sunday's 89-82 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, the Bulls will need to win out the final three games of the series to avoid elimination. The most recent defeat has Chicago trailing 3-1 to Philadelphia in the seven-game first round series.

The Bulls and Sixers played a tough game, but Chicago couldn't execute down the stretch yet again without its key playmaker and scorer in Rose, as well as injured center Joakim Noah. The Bulls shot just 40 percent from the field for the game, turning the ball over 14 times compared to Philadelphia's eight turnovers.

C.J. Watson (17 points, six rebounds) helped to keep Chicago in the game with some key scores, but down the stretch the team simply couldn't find good shots on offense. Carlos Boozer led the Bulls with 23 points and 11 rebounds, but he turned the ball over five times, including some especially untimely ones.

On defense, the Bulls just didn't make enough timely stops down the stretch. Jrue Holiday was inconsistent but made some huge shots late, finishing the game with 20 points, eight rebounds and six rebounds, plus Spencer Hawes was huge with 22 points and eight rebounds. Andre Iguodala added a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update: Philadelphia Leads 64-63 After Three Quarters

The Chicago Bulls are trailing 64-63 to the Philadelphia 76ers after three quarters of play in Game 4 on Sunday afternoon. The two teams are locked in a tight battle as the top-seeded Bulls try to knot up the seven-game series with the upset-minded Sixers.

Neither team has played especially well on offense, with both teams shooting around 40 percent with poor numbers from long range. The 76ers have had more chances at the charity stripe, but they're just 11-of-19 on free throw attempts so far through three quarters.

Carlos Boozer leads Chicago with 18 points and eight rebounds, but he's just 9-of-20 shooting from the field. Spencer Hawes has been extremely impressive for Philadelphia, putting up 20 points, eight rebounds and three blocks so far.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over toBlog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update: Chicago Trails 44-42 At Halftime

The Chicago Bulls are trailing 44-42 at halftime against the Philadelphia 76ers following a three-point shot with roughly five seconds left in the half by Spencer Hawes. Entering Sunday, Philadelphia leads the seven-game series 2-1.

Chicago struggled badly in the first quarter but found some traction in the second quarter, especially on offense. After an abysmal first quarter performance from the field, the Bulls are at 44 percent shooting from the field, and they followed up a 15-point effort in the first quarter with 27 points in the second.

Philadelphia is shooting just 37 percent from the field so far, but center Spencer Hawes has absolutely carried that offense so far. After that final long-distance shot, Hawes leads the Sixers with 17 points and six rebounds on 7-of-8 shooting as their go-to player. On the perimeter, Lou Williams, Jrue Holiday and Evan Turner are shooting a combined 4-of-28 (14 percent).

Taj Gibson has been huge for Chicago off the bench, putting up 12 points, eight rebounds and a pair of blocks in just 15 minutes of play. Carlos Boozer is also in double-figures with 10 points and five rebounds, plus Luol Deng has six points.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update: Chicago Trails 24-15 After First Quarter

Things once again don't look rosy for the Chicago Bulls as they trail 24-15 to the Philadelphia 76ers after one quarter in Game 4. A loss on Sunday would put Chicago down 3-1 in the seven-game series, seemingly making it likely that a major first round upset would be in the works.

Without Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah, who are both out with injuries, the Bulls have been especially bad on offense. After one quarter, Chicago is shooting just 28 percent without two of its best ball handlers, struggling to really get anything going. The Sixers are shooting 41 percent and have the rebounding advantage.

Luol Deng leads the Bulls with six points on 3-of-5 shooting. Spencer Hawes has eight points and five rebounds to lead Philadephia.

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Bulls Vs. Sixers: Omer Asik Will Start In Place Of Injured Joakim Noah

It's official: Chicago Bulls center Omer Asik will replace injured center Joakim Noah in the Bulls' starting line up for Game 4 of the team's first round playoff match up vs. the Philadelphia 76ers.

Jo is officially out according to Thibs. Omer starts.

— Nick Friedell (@ESPNChiBulls) May 6, 2012

Thibodeau has chosen continuity in deciding to start Asik, but if the Bulls continue to struggle mightily with Derrick Rose, Thibodeau may be forced to give a majority of the minutes to more offensive-minded players like Taj Gibson or even Brian Scalabrine. But in the meantime, the Bulls will rely on its vaunted defense, of which Asik is an integral part.

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Bulls Vs. Sixers: Asik Likely To Start In Game 4, According To Report

The Chicago Bulls have already replaced Derrick Rose in their starting line up, and now they'll have to do the same with Joakim Noah. Noah, the Bulls starting center and its backbone defensively, badly turned his ankle in Game 3 and will be out for Game 4 and likely beyond. Head coach Tom Thibodeau has been mum on who will replace Noah in the starting line up, but all indications are that back up center Omer Asik will slide up.

#Bulls Asik likely to start in place of Noah today's game 4 vs #Sixers. Asik avg 14.7 min per GM, Thibs says its a gametime decision

— peggy kusinski (@peggykusinski) May 6, 2012

Bumping Asik up is the obvious move for Thibodeau, though he could choose to start Taj Gibson if he's more concerned with the Bulls' offense than its defense.

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Bulls Vs. 76ers, Game 4: PG C.J. Watson Likely To Play Despite Injuries

The Chicago Bulls are without PG Derrick Rose and C Joakim Noah heading into the Game 4 matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, but they should still have backup PG C.J. Watson available despite elbow and ankles injuries. According to Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau, Watson should be able to play in Sunday's contest:

"He'll be fine," coach Tom Thibodeau said. "I'm confident C.J. will play well (Sunday)."

Watson struggled in Game 3 against the Bulls, shooting 0 for 4 with 1 rebound and 4 assists through 20 minutes. PG John Lucas III played 28 minutes in the game, shooting 4 for 12 with 3 rebounds and 3 assists.

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Bulls Vs. 76ers, Game 4: Chicago Unsure Who Will Start At Center

The Chicago Bulls, trailing 2-1 in the opening round of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, are currently unsure who will start at center against the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday's pivotal Game 4.

According to Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau, the team may start either C Omer Asik or PF Taj Gibson in the absence of C Joakim Noah, with C Brian Scalabrine providing the depth off the bench:

"Omer (Asik) obviously can handle that position," Thibodeau said. "Taj (Gibson) has played both (center and power forward). It gives you versatility there. We feel like we'll be OK. We have three bigs. We also have Scal. We feel we have more than enough."

The Bulls and 76ers will begin play at 12:00 p.m. CDT.

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Bulls Vs. 76ers Recap: Bulls Lose 79-74, Down 2-1 In Series

If there's anything worse for the Chicago Bulls than watching point guard Derrick Rose blow out his ACL in the team's first round series vs. the Philadelphia 76ers, maybe it's letting a still winnable series slip out of their grasp as they struggle to put together an offense with their star missing in action. The scenario got closer to playing itself out on Friday night, as the Bulls squandered a fourth quarter double-digit lead, losing 79-74 to the Sixers and falling down in the series 2-1.

After falling apart in the second half of Game 2, the Bulls looked like they'd put the halt on any plans to a sequel. Their league-leading defense totally smothered the Sixers offense, allowing only 11 points as they stretched their lead to as much as 11 early in the fourth. But shortly after that Chicago more or less ceased being able to score, shooting 6-24 in the final quarter as Philadelphia slowly inched its way back into the game.

The Sixers took the lead for good with just over two minutes left in the game, when center Spencer Hawes drained a jumper to put Philly up 72-71. John Lucas III provided some life late when he hit a three to bring Philadelphia's lead to 75-74, but the Sixers would hit four free throws to close out the game. The Bulls not only weren't able to score in the fourth, but they were unable to get to the line or make free throws when they did, and they dropped tonight's game despite holding the Sixers to under 35% shooting from the field, including 1-14 from three point range.

The two teams will pick it up again for Game 4 on Sunday in Philly at noon CT.

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Joakim Noah Injury: Noah Suffers Gruesome Ankle Injury (VIDEO)

There's turning an ankle, and then there's what happened to Joakim Noah's left ankle in the third quarter of Game 3 on Friday night vs. the Philadelphia 76ers. On a drive to the hoop, Noah stepped on the foot of Sixers forward Andre Igoudala and ended up with the side of his foot completely parallel to the floor as his foot and ankle made a near-perfect 90 degree angle.

If there's such a thing as a stomach-turning ankle... turn, this is it.

Noah attempted to play through the injury but quickly returned to the locker room, where he's watched the Bulls slowly let their third quarter lead slip away.

For good measure, here's a close up GIF of Noah's injury:

via assets.sbnation.com

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ANIMATED: Igoudala To Turner, Through Watson's Legs

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update: Bulls Take Nine Point Lead Into Fourth

The vaunted Chicago Bulls defense really bared its teeth in the third quarter of Friday night's Game 3 match up with the Philadelphia 76ers, holding the Sixers to only 11 points as they regained the lead and held it at 60-51 going into the fourth. Chicago continued to suffocate Philadelphia's already stagnant offense, dropping the Sixers' field goal percentage to 30% on the night and holding them to 1-12 shooting from the three point line.

The Bulls didn't put up major points themselves, but their 21 points in the quarter were more than enough to give them a comfortable lead. But it wasn't all good news for Tom Thibodeau and his staff, as center Joakim Noah badly turned his left ankle and left for the locker room after briefly attempting to play through the injury. Carlos Boozer, who has 16 points and eight rebounds, helped pick up the slack in the frontcourt.

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Joakim Noah Injury: Noah Sprains Ankle, Leaves Game

When it rains, it pours. The Chicago Bulls, already missing star point guard Derrick Rose for the remainder of the 2012 playoffs and beyond, are now having to deal with an injury to center Joakim Noah, who reportedly sprained his left ankle in the third quarter of Game 3.

Noah was able to get up off the floor and was able to briefly return to the game. But the pain was too much, and he returned to the locker room shortly thereafter.

Joakim Noah tried to play through sprained left ankle. Couldn't do it. Just limped to locker room, Asik comes on at center.

— Adam Levitan (@adamlevitan) May 5, 2012

Noah leaves the game having put up 10 points and seven rebounds in 24 minutes.

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Bulls Vs. Sixers Update: Bulls Down One At Half

After two wildly divergent games, the first half of Game 3 between the Chicago Bulls and Philadelphia 76ers may have given us a glimpse into what the rest of the series look like with the Bulls of course missing Derrick Rose. The first half of Friday night's game was low scoring and hard fought, with the Sixers just cracking the 40-point barrier and both teams combining to shoot 27 free throws.

The Bulls were led by Carlos Boozer and Richard Hamilton, who finished the half with 12 and 10 points respectively. Boozer was 6-9 from the field and added four rebounds and a steal, while Hamilton did his damage from the charity stripe, where he went 8-10 in the first half. John Lucas III, coming off the bench for the Bulls, added in nine points on 3-5 shooting.

The Sixers were powered by bench star Lou Williams, who scored 10 points in 15 minutes of game time off the pine. Philadelphia shot only 35% from the field and made just one three pointer in 10 tries, but they forced the Bulls into nine turnovers, which helped make up for the Bulls' shooting percentage advantage.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update: Chicago Takes 20-19 Lead Into 2nd Quarter

The Chicago Bulls are looking to bounce back from a Game 2 loss and so far they've been in a tightly-contested game with the 76ers. A shot at the first quarter buzzer gave Chicago a 20-19 lead heading into the second period.

Related: Bulls vs. Sixers, 2012 NBA Playoffs: Game Three Open Thread

Carlos Boozer had an outstanding quarter and leads the Bulls with 10 points on 5-6 shooting to go with three rebounds. Richard Hamilton has four points; Noah, Deng and John Lucas have two apiece. Chicago is shooting 50% from the field.

Lou Williams has six points to lead Philadelphia and Spencer Hawes has scored five.

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2012 NBA Playoffs, 76ers Vs. Bulls Game 3: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

After a brutal showing in the second half of Game 2, the Chicago Bulls are hoping to get back to the winning ways against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night.

VIDEO: Kendall Gill Discusses Bulls Loss To 76ers In Game 2

The Chicago Bulls lost to the Philadelphia 76ers 109-92 on Tuesday, evening the first round playoff series at one. In the video below, CSN's Kendall Gill discusses some of the issues that plagued the Bulls in the game. Gill also talks about what Chicago needs to do in Game 3, from countering Evan Turner to getting Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng more involved offensively.

Related: 2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers Final Score: Miserable Second Half Dooms Chicago In 109-92 Loss

Game 3 is set for Friday night in Philadelphia. It'll be the Bulls' second playoff game without point guard Derrick Rose; they're 18-10 overall without Rose in the lineup this season.

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Bulls Vs. Sixers: Derrick Rose Arrives At United Center, Takes Sad Golf Cart Ride

One of the biggest stories early in Game 2 between the Chicago Bulls and Philadelphia 76ers was the presence of injured Bulls point guard, and reigning MVP, Derrick Rose. Rose was initially spotted taking in the game from a luxury box at the United Center by himself, but he was eventually joined by family and friends.

The normally stoic Rose didn't show much emotion throughout the game, and when he arrived at the United Center on crutches, he took a very sad looking golf cart ride through the hallway of the arena before losing site of the press.

(via CSN Chicago)

The gist of the recent GQ profile of Rose was that he hates attention, so he must have particularly disliked this part of his night.

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Bulls Vs. Sixers: Joakim Noah After Bulls Loss, "We Got Our Ass Kicked"

Joakim Noah has never been one to mince words, and after the Chicago Bulls' disappointing blowout loss at home at the hands of the Philadelphia 76ers, he wasn't about to start. A despondent Noah told gathered reporters at his postgame press conference that the Bulls "got our ass kicked."

(via CSN Chicago)

Noah bemoaned the Bulls effort, saying, "We didn't play well defensively... we didn't play well offensively." He refused to use Derrick Rose's ACL injury as an excuse though, saying that the team knows that they can play better, especially as it pertains to "team defense," where Noah noted that the Bulls didn't have enough fight in their game two loss.

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Chicago Bulls Notebook: Huge Second Half Gives Philadelphia Game 2 Victory

The Chicago Bulls were run off the floor in the third quarter of Game 2 by the Philadelphia 76ers. As the series heads back to Philly tied 1-1, SB Nation Chicago editor Ricky O'Donnell wonders if Chicago might be in real trouble.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers Final Score: Miserable Second Half Dooms Chicago In 109-92 Loss

The Chicago Bulls were blown out in the second half against the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night at the United Center. Philadelphia will leave Chicago with the series tied 1-1 after a 109-92 victory in Game 2.

Chicago led by eight at halftime but Tom Thibodeau's team was outscored 62-37 in the second half.

Jrue Holiday scored 26 points on 11-of-15 shooting in the win. Shooting guard Evan Turner finished with 19 points, seven rebounds and six assists in the win.

Center Joakim Noah had 21 points, eight rebounds and five assists for Chicago in the loss on 10-of-11 shooting. C.J. Watson finished with 12 points. John Lucas III added 15 points off the bench in the loss for the Bulls.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, 76ers Vs. Bulls Score Update: Chicago Trails By 14 Going Into 4th Quarter

The Chicago Bulls started the third quarter of Game 2 with an eight point lead over the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night. Going into the fourth, Chicago trails by 14.

The Philadelphia 76ers lead the Bulls 83-69 after three quarters at the United Center. Philadelphia dominated action at both ends of the court and finished the third with a 36-14 advantage.

Jrue Holiday has 24 points at the half for the 76ers on 10-of-11 shooting with six assists. Evan Turner has 17 points, seven rebounds and five assists for Philadelphia. Joakim Noah didn't score in the third quarter after finishing the first half with 14 points. Richard Hamilton and C.J. Watson each have 10 points for Chicago.

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ANIMATED: Joakim Noah Crosses Thad Young, Fires Finger Gunz In First Half Vs. 76ers

2012 NBA Playoffs, 76ers Vs. Bulls Score Update: Chicago Leads 55-47 At Halftime

No Derrick Rose, NO PROBLEM for the Chicago Bulls. Well, at least during the first half of Game 2 against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Chicago leads Philadelphia 55-47 at halftime at the United Center. The Bulls closed the second quarter strong and have been led by a brilliant first half from center Joakim Noah.

Noah ends the half with 14 points, five rebounds and three assists. Carlos Boozer has nine points and four rebounds for the Bulls. John Lucas III came off the bench to score 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting.

Jrue Holiday had an excellent first half for the 76ers. Holiday finished with 17 points on 7-of-8 shooting. Andre Iguodala had seven points. Elton Brand and Evan Turner each added six points for Philly.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

76ers Vs. Bulls Score Update: Chicago Leads 28-25 After The 1st Quarter

In the absence of point guard Derrick Rose, the Chicago Bulls have used a balanced attack to claim a 28-25 lead over the Philadelphia 76ers after one quarter of play.

Related: Bulls vs. Sixers, 2012 NBA Playoffs: Game Two Open Thread

Richard Hamilton, Luol Deng and Carlos Boozer have six points apiece to lead the team in scoring, while C.J. Watson and Luol Deng both have five points. As a team, the Bulls shot 12-23 from the field, including 2-3 from beyond the arc.

For the Sixers, Jrue Holiday has eight points on 3-3 shooting from the field. Elton Brand has six points and Evan Turner has scored four points to go with four rebounds.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

76ers Vs. Bulls Starting Lineups: C.J. Watson Starts At PG For Chicago

The starting lineups for Game 2 between the Chicago Bulls and Philadelphia 76ers have been released. With Derrick Rose now sidelined for the rest of the postseason, C.J. Watson has been inserted into Chicago's lineup by head coach Tom Thibodeau.

Bulls: Watson, Rp, Deng, Boozer, Noah:Philly: Holiday, Turner, Iguodala, Brand Hawes

— chuck swirsky (@swirsk054) May 1, 2012

Related: NBA Playoffs 2012: The Chicago Bulls' Adjusted Expectations (SB Nation Chicago Roundtable)

The 76ers made a couple of changes after their Game 1 loss, inserting Evan Turner and Spencer Hawes into the starting five.

Tuesday night's game is set to tip off at 7:00 p.m. CT.

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NBA Coach Of The Year Award Goes To San Antonio's Gregg Popovich, Not Chicago's Tom Thibodeau

Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich To Win Coach Of The Year, According To Report

In a likely surprise to Chicago Bulls fans, coach Tom Thibodeau will not earn his second straight Coach of the Year award -- that honor will belong to San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, according to Mike Monroe of the San Antonio Express-News:

Popovich to be named Coach of Year at 2 pm

— Mike Monroe (@Monroe_SA) May 1, 2012

Both Popovich and Thibodeau led their teams to the best record in the NBA at 50-16. While Thibodeau navigated significant injuries to SG Richard Hamilton and PG Derrick Rose, Popovich overcame a 26-13 start to post a 24-3 record through the end of the season with two double-digit winning streaks.

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NBA Playoffs 2012: The Chicago Bulls' Adjusted Expectations (SB Nation Chicago Roundtable)

Before Game 2 tips off tonight, the SB Nation Chicago crew got together to discuss how they're handling the harsh reality that the Chicago Bulls will play the remainder of this postseason without star guard Derrick Rose.

NBA Playoffs: Bulls, 76ers Game 3 Moved To ESPN2

The Chicago Bulls (1-0) have not only lost their starting PG Derrick Rose, but they have also apparently lost a bit of their audience appeal. According to NBA analyst Tom Ziller, the Bulls and the Philadelphia 76ers (0-1) are leaving the ESPN flagship station in favor of the Atlanta Hawks and Boston Celtics:

NBA announces that ATL-BOS Game 3 bumped up to ESPN from NBA TV. PHI-CHI bumped from ESPN to ESPN2.

— Tom Ziller (@teamziller) May 1, 2012

The Bulls won Game 1 of their series against the 76ers and are preparing for Game 2 on Monday night, but will do so without the reigning NBA MVP as Derrick Rose tore his ACL in the waning minutes of Saturday's game.

For more on this game, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. Additional 76ers analysis can be found at Liberty Ballers. For more news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Scottie Pippen Has The Best Signature Ever

2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers Game 2: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

Game 2 is set for Tuesday night.

Bulls Vs. 76ers: Vegas Still Likes Chicago In 1st Round Series

Losing Derrick Rose hurt Chicago's playoff chances, of course, but handicappers at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas don't see that injury getting in the way of a first round series win over the Philadelphia 76ers.

The MGM Grand Race & Sports Book still has the Bulls as a -600 favorite for the seven-game series, which the Bulls lead 1-0. Oddsmakers in Vegas and overseas have the Bulls winning Tuesday’s game by 6 to 6 ½ points.

"His injury is key " MGM Grand Sports Book Director Jay Rood wrote in an e-mail. "But not as big if he had played every game and we didn't know how the team would play without him. We have a good sample size on that this year so it removes some uncertainty."

As for Chicago's NBA championship odds, MGM has moved them from 9-5 to 9-2.

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We Are All Simba

Chicago Bulls Notebook: Derrick Rose's Torn ACL Kills Hopes And Dreams

Derrick Rose tore his ACL late in the fourth quarter of the Chicago Bulls' 103-91 win over the Philadelphia 76ers to open the playoffs. It's a devastating development for the Bulls, who just lost a golden opportunity at winning a championship.

Derrick Rose Injury: Bulls GM Gar Forman Supports Tom Thibodeau's Decision To Leave Rose In Game

After Derrick Rose suffered a devastating knee injury in the late stages of the Bulls' win over Philadelphia on Saturday, many questioned why Rose was even on the court at that point. Tom Thibodeau defended that decision after the game, and Bulls general manager Gar Forman offered his full support to Thibodeau on Sunday.

"There is absolutely no issue there," general manager Gar Forman said Sunday. "It's a playoff game. They had cut a lead down (from 20) to 12. We're going to have our guys on the floor making sure we win the game. Tom is a terrific coach who does a lot of things well. One of the best things he does is pace our team."

Related: Derrick Rose out for the season: Nobody to blame for ACL tear, but that doesn't absolve everyone

Chicago won Game 1 103-91.

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Derrick Rose Injury: Doug Collins Says 76ers Are 'Sick To Their Stomachs' Over What Happened

After Derrick Rose tore an ACL in the late stages of the Bulls' win over Philadelphia on Saturday, 76ers head coach Doug Collins was asked for his opinion on the matter.

"I think everyone on our team and organization is sick to their stomachs today about what happened to that young guy," said Sixers coach Doug Collins. "I was in contact with Pax [Bulls VP of Basketball Operations John Paxson] last night, Jerry Reinsdorf and Thibs, just letting them know how we feel about the young guy. He’s everything that’s right about the NBA and I know he’s heartbroken about not being able to be a part of this."

Related: Derrick Rose Injury: Northwestern University Surgeon Discusses ACL Tear

The series resumes in Chicago on Tuesday night.

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Derrick Rose Injury: Bulls Star Has Torn ACL, Will Miss Remainder Of Season

Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls went down grabbing his left knee with 1:10 remaining in the fourth quarter of Chicago's 103-91 victory on Saturday afternoon against the Philadelphia 76ers in the opening game of the first round of the 2012 NBA Playoffs. The official word has come in and it's the worst case scenario for Chicago. Rose has torn his ACL and will miss the rest of the season.

Derrick Rose has a torn ACL according to the Bulls.

— Nick Friedell (@ESPNChiBulls) April 28, 2012

Rose had 23 points, nine assists and nine rebounds at the time of the injury. A debate will rage whether coach Tom Thibodeau was justified in leaving Rose in the game with Chicago up 12 and barely over a minute left.

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Derrick Rose Injury: Tom Thibodeau Talks About Decision To Leave Star Guard In Game

There was a 1:10 remaining in the fourth quarter with the Chicago Bulls holding a 12-point lead when Chicago's star guard Derrick Rose landed awkwardly on his left knee. Trainers immediately ran to his side and had to help the reigning MVP off the court and into the locker room. It did not look good.

Head coach Tom Thibodeau was asked to explain his decision to leave Rose in the game with such a comfortable lead and only a minute and change left. Here's what Thibodeau said.

"I don't work backward like you guys, the score was going the other way." Thibs on playing Derrick. That's just how his mind works.

— jon greenberg (@espnchijon) April 28, 2012

Chicago won 103-91, but the injury erases any positive impressions the Bulls were able to make. Rose finished with 23 points, nine assists and nine rebounds.

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Derrick Rose Injury: Bulls Guard Lands Awkwardly On Knee, Has To Be Helped Off Court (VIDEO)

The Chicago Bulls were cruising to a decisive victory against the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 1 of the team's first round playoff series until the mood changed abruptly when star guard Derrick Rose went down with a knee injury. Chicago was up by 12 points with just over a minute remaining when Rose went down. He had to be helped off the court and into the locker room. Here's the video:

Here's Rose's reaction in .gif form.

Chicago did escape with a 103-91 victory, though Rose's injury will certainly hang over everything. If the injury is as bad as it looks, the Bulls are in deep trouble.

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Derrick Rose Injury: Bulls Guard Hurt Late In Chicago Victory

With Chicago Bulls up 12 points with just over a minute to play, star point guard Derrick Rose landed awkwardly on his left knee and had to be helped off the court. The injury clouded Chicago's 103-91 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 1 of the teams' opening round playoff series.

Rose was excellent before the injury, finishing with 23 points, nine rebounds and nine assists. Coach Tom Thibodeau will certainly draw criticism for having Rose in the game with the Bulls ahead by such a comfortable margin so late in the game.

While Chicago dominated Game 1, a serious injury to Rose drastically changes the Bulls' playoff outlook.

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2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update: Bulls Lead 79-66 After Three Quarters

The Chicago Bulls will take a 79-66 lead over the Philadelphia 76ers into the final quarter in Game 1 of their opening round series in the 2012 NBA Playoffs. Four Bulls starters have already reached double-figures in scoring.

Chicago is led by Derrick Rose, who goes into the fourth with 18 points, nine rebounds and six assists on 7-of-19 shooting. Rose hit two three-pointers in the third quarter. Richard Hamilton has 19 points and four assists. Luol Deng has 11 points and six rebounds, while Joakim Noah has 10 points and 11 rebounds.

The 76ers are being led by Elton Brand, who has 19 points.

Chicago is out-rebounding Philly 41-30.

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2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers First Half Highlights: Taj Gibson And Joakim Noah Throw Down Hard

It was the stellar play of the starting backcourt that propelled the Chicago Bulls to a 53-42 halftime lead over the Philadelphia 76ers in the first game of their opening round playoff series on Saturday afternoon, but Chicago's frontcourt was responsible for creating the best highlights. The Bulls aren't the most dunk-friendly team in the playoffs, but center Joakim Noah and power forward Taj Gibson each threw down thunderous slams in the first half to excite the United Center crowd.

Here's the video of Joakim Noah's first quarter and-one slam.

Taj's tip dunk was nice too, but his post-jam scream might be even more impressive. Here's the .gif:

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2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update: Chicago Takes 53-42 Lead Into Halftime

The Chicago Bulls lead the Philadelphia 76ers 53-42 at halftime during the first game of their opening round series in the 2012 NBA Playoffs. Chicago has been led by its starting backcourt of Derrick Rose and Richard Hamilton, who powered the Bulls offensively through the first two quarters.

Hamilton has 13 points on 5-of-6 shooting. Rose finally found his rhythm late in the second, and ends the half with 10 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Luol Deng has nine points for Chicago at the half.

Elton Brand leads Philly with 15 points at the half. Jrue Holiday has eight points.

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2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers Score Update: Chicago Leads By 4 After 1st Quarter

The Chicago Bulls lead the Philadelphia 76ers 28-24 after the first quarter in the first game of their opening round series in the 2012 NBA Playoffs. Top-seeded Chicago enters as a heavy favorite in the first round, and thus far Tom Thibodeau's team is showing why most expect the Bulls to run past Philadelphia in the opening round.

Richard Hamilton had an excellent first quarter for Chicago, which is very encouraging for Bulls fans. Hamilton scored 11 points on 4-of-4 shooting.

Luol Deng and Carlos Boozer each have four points and three rebounds for Chicago at the end of one quarter.

Elton Brand leads the 76ers with eight points.

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2012 NBA Playoffs, 76ers Vs. Bulls Game 1 Starting Lineups

The Chicago Bulls and the Philadelphia 76ers are about to blow the lid off of the 2012 NBA Playoffs with the first game of the first round in the Eastern Conference playoff bracket at the United Center in Chicago. The Bulls are the No. 1 seed in the East, while the Sixers slipped into the playoffs at No. 8. The Bulls starters for Game 1 are Derrick Rose, Richard Hamilton, Ronnie Brewer, Carlos Boozer and Joakim Noah. The Sixers are countering with a quintet of Jrue Holiday, Jodie Meeks, Andre Iguodala, Elton Brand and Lavoy Allen.

Bulls Starters:

• Derrick Rose
• Richard Hamilton
• Ronnie Brewer
• Carlos Boozer
• Joakim Noah

Sixers Starters

• Jrue Holiday
• Jodie Meeks
• Andre Iguodala
• Elton Brand
• Lavoy Allen

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2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers Game 1: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Chicago Bulls face the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 1 of their opening round series in the 2012 NBA Playoffs on Saturday.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Bulls Vs. 76ers: First Round Schedule Released

Here's the full schedule for the Chicago Bulls' first round match-up against the Philadelphia 76ers.