Suns at Bulls preview with Chicago Tribune

We got a chance to catch up with K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune to breakdown the Chicago Bulls as they get ready to take on your Phoenix Suns.

After a tough season last year what has been the biggest change between Vinny Del Negro and last years coaching staff?

K.C Johnson: There has been a more positive vibe with this staff. Players talk about a greater effort at communication, although Skiles would dispute a lack of communication last season. Del Negro is a glass half-full guy, though, who always stresses the positive, even if that means glossing over reality at times.

Through five games what are your first impressions of Derrick Rose?

K.C Johnson: That he will be a perennial All-Star. He already has displayed on on consitent ability to basically get to the rim whenever he wants. He has a unique combination of size and speed. The more he learns the NBA game, the better he will be.

The Bulls are shooting 40% as a team. Is it a matter of poor shot selection, good defense by their opponents or something else?

K.C Johnson: Obviously a combination, but I’d put a large share on shot selection. It’s been brutal. Often, it looks like players who are adjusting to playing with someone who needs the ball a lot (Rose) merely jacks a selfish shot as soon as they touch it.

What changes, if any, is Del Negro exploring to jump start the offense?

K.C Johnson: The offense is extremely basic right now, mostly consisting of high screen-and-roll sets to utilize Rose. This is on on refection of having on on rookie PG and also a nod to all the injuries they had during preseason, and, thus, unfamiliarity. They are trying to play more up tempo but are having trouble getting in transition because defense has been poor.

Who is one guy on the Bulls roster Suns fans may not be familiar with but they should keep an eye out for tonight?

K.C Johnson: Nobody from this team will sneak up on anybody because theyre just not playing well enough right now. I heard Shaq is out or else I’ d’ say Aaron Gray, who would’ve been used to bang. Thabo Sefolosha intrigued the Suns on 2006 draft night but has failed to run with a golden opportunity as a starter.

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