Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau tries to rally his team in the fourth quarter against the Bucks.
John J. Kim, baiduhaiThe Cavaliers' LeBron James waits for the ball to inbound after a timeout as Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau watches in the final seconds of Game 1.
Tony Dejak, APBulls coach Tom Thibodeau reacts during the first half of Game 5 against the Cavaliers.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau argues a call in the first half against the Hornets at the United Center.
Armando L. Sanchez, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau disagrees with a referees call during the first half against the Cavaliers in Game 6.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiTom Thibodeau meets with his players during a timeout late in the fourth quarter of Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Ross D. Franklin, APBulls coach Tom Thibodeau gives instructions to his players during the first half against the Suns.
Brad Penner / USA Today SportsBulls coach Tom Thibodeau reacts from the sidelines against the Nets during the third quarter at Barclays Center.
Joshua C. Cruey, Orlando SentinelTom Thibodeau questions the referee during first quarter action of a game against the Magic at the Amway Center.
Jim Mone / APTom Thibodeau is introduced as the new Timberwolves coach on April 26, 2016.
Geoff Burke, USA Today SportsTom Thibodeau gestures to Bulls guard Kirk Hinrich against the Wizards in the second quarter at Verizon Center. The Bulls won 96-78.
Brian Cassella, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau at Bulls media day.
Jose M. Osorio, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau, left, walks with Michael Reinsdorf, former Bulls player Scottie Pippen and others as they make their way to the Bulls official groundbreaking ceremony for the teams new practice facility.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiTom Thibodeau stands for the National Anthem before Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
PAUL BEATY, APTom Thibodeau reacts during the second half of a game against the Grizzlies.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau during the second half of his team's game against the Kings at the United Center.
John J. Kim, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau yells at a referee in the second quarter at the United Center. Thibodeau was given a technical foul moments later.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau talks with his team during a timeout against the Mavericks at the United Center.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiMinnesota Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau waves to the crowd after being introduced before a game against the Bulls at the United Center on Dec. 13, 2016.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau prepares for a timeout as his players walk off the floor during a game against the 76ers at the United Center.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiMinnesota Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau reacts in the first half of a game against the Bulls at the United Center on Dec. 13, 2016.
Phil Velasquez, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau and new Chicago Bulls player Pau Gasol have big smiles as Gasol is introduced at the United Center.
Chris Walker, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau looks on as Bulls draft pick Jimmy Butler is is fitted with his jersey by GM Gar Forman at a news conference at the Berto Center.
Scott Strazzante, baiduhaiThe Heat's LeBron James collides with Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau on the sidelines.
John J. Kim, baiduhaiMarco Belinelli gets a mouth-full from Tom Thibodeau after a lacking defensive play against the Nets in the fourth quarter of Game 7.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau paces the bench late in the second half of his team's game against the Nets.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiFormer Bull Omer Asik, now with the Rockets, with Tom Thibodeau before tipoff.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau argues a call in the second half at the United Center.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiMinnesota Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau stands for the national anthem before a game against the Bulls at the United Center on Dec. 13, 2016.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau reacts in the second half of Game 5 of the first round of Playoffs at the United Center.
Antonio Perez, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau discusses the injury to Derrick Rose following a press conference update at Rush Medical Center,
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau actually sat down late in the second half of his team's game (a win) against the Knicks.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiFormer Chicago Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau takes in the action between Duke and Kentucky in the second half of the Champions Classic at the United Center on November 17, 2015.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau during the first half of his team's game against the Pistons at the United Center.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau works the sideline in the second half at the United Center.
Jim Mone / APTom Thibodeau walks onto the platform to be introduced as the new Timberwolves coach on April 26, 2016.
Phil Velasquez, baiduhaiDerrick Rose and Tom Thibodeau look at game film.
Kirby Lee-US PRESSWIREBulls coach Tom Thibodeau talks with Kyle Korver during the game against the Lakers at the Staples Center.
Armando L. Sanchez, baiduhaiBulls head coach Tom Thibodeau disagrees with a referee's call in Game 4 against the Bucks.
Kevin C. Cox, Getty ImagesTom Thibodeau yells to his team during the game against the Hawks at Philips Arena.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiDerrick Rose with coach Tom Thibodeau during the first half of their game against the Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.
Ethan Miller / Getty ImagesTeam USA assistant coach Tom Thibodeau looks on during a practice session at the Mendenhall Center on July 20, 2016 in Las Vegas.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau and guard Derrick Rose walk off the court after losing to the Cavaliers in Game 6.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau during the third quarter against the Celtics at the United Center.
Scott Strazzante, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau calls a play in the 4th quarter in a win over the Magic at the United Center.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiDerrick Rose chats with coach Tom Thibodeau before their team's game against the Rockets.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiBulls forward Jimmy Butler stands by as Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau yells out in the first half of a game at the United Center on Dec. 13, 2016.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau argues with a referee in the first half at the United Center.
Phil Velasquez, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau at the Berto Center.
Phil Velasquez, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau speaks to the media on the UC floor a day after it was announced that Derrick Rose would be sidelined again with a knee injury.
Russell Isabella, USA Today SportsTom Thibodeau reacts to a call during the second half against the Jazz at EnergySolutions Arena. The Jazz won 89-83 in overtime.
Jose M. Osorio, McClatchy-TribuneTom Thibodeau shoots a television spot for WGN-TV during Media Day at the Berto Center.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau reacts after a no-call on a drive by Luol Deng late in the 4th quarter against the Pacers at the United Center.
Morry Gash, APBulls coach Tom Thibodeau yells during the first half of Game 3 against the Bucks.
Sam Sharpe, USA Today SportsTom Thibodeau during the second half of a game against the Bobcats. The Bulls lost in overtime 91-86.
D. ROSS CAMERON / APTimberwolves coach Tom Thibodeau complains about the officiating during the first quarter against the Warriors on Saturday, Nov. 26, 2016, in Oakland, Calif.
Steve Babineau, NBAEGetty ImagesCeltics assistant coach Tom Thibodeau at Media Day in 2007.
Brian Babineau, NBAEGetty ImagesCeltics assistant coach Tom Thibodeau talks to Kendrick Perkins during a 2009 game against the Heat.
Scott Strazzante, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau and official Gary Zielinski laugh during a game against the Bobcats at the United Center.
Gary Dineen, NBAEGetty ImagesTom Thibodeau watches preseason action from the sidelines.
Jonathan Daniel, Getty ImagesBulls coach Tom Thibodeau talks to referee Marc Davis in the first quarter of Game 6 against the Cavaliers.
Armando L. Sanchez, baiduhaiChicago Bulls fire head coach Tom Thibodeau, though he despite having two years and roughly $9 million left on his contract.
Brian Cassella, baiduhaiDerrick Rose, Joakim Noah and Tom Thibodeau pose during the Bulls media day.
Phil Velasquez, baiduhaiJimmy Butler (left) along with head coach Tom Thibodeau and GM Gar Forman after Butler was given the 2014-15 NBA Most Improved Player Award.
Chris Walker, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau walks through the practice gym after a photo shoot following the news conference where he was introduced as the new Bulls head coach.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau speaks with Joakim Noah and Carlos Boozer moments before the start of their game against the Mavericks.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiTom Thibodeau leaves his press conference after a loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Kamil Krzaczynski, APBulls coach Tom Thibodeau reacts to a call made by official Courtney Kirkland.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau during the second half of his team's game against the Grizzlies.
Ethan Miller / Getty ImagesTeam USA assistant coach Tom Thibodeau, head coach Mike Krzyzewski and assistant coach Jim Boeheim ofwatch their players take on Argentina during a USA Basketball showcase exhibition game at T-Mobile Arena on July 22, 2016 in Las Vegas. The United States won 111-74.
Jonathan Daniel, Getty ImagesTom Thibodeau yells at referee John Goble during a game against the Raptors at the United Center.
Scott Strazzante, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau urges his team on during 4th quarter of a 102-93 loss to Wizards during Game 1.
John J. Kim, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau talks with a reporter after a film session at the team hotel in Miami.
Chris Walker, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau exits press availability at the Berto Center.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau gives some direction to his team, including guard Tony Snell.
Phil Velasquez, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau says something that sets off Derrick Rose during Team USA workouts.
Jonathan Daniel, Getty ImagesBulls coach Tom Thibodeau during Game 1 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals against the Bucks.
Drew Hallowell, Getty ImagesTom Thibodeau reacts during Game 4 against the 76ers.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau during the second half of his team's game against the Timberwolves at the United Center.
Chris Walker, baiduhaiDerrick Rose, Luol Deng, Coach Tom Thibodeau, Taj Gibson and Joakim Noah huddle at practice.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau reacts after a call during Game 4 against the Cavaliers at the United Center.
John J. Kim, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau walks past a mural of the Bulls' six championship trophies.
Brian Cassella, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau before the game at the United Center.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau gives an interview to TNT in between quarters of a game against the Nets at the United Center.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau reacts to a call in the first half of Game 5 against the Wizards.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiBulls forward Jimmy Butler waits to enter the game as Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau yells out instructions in the first half of a game at the United Center on Dec. 13, 2016.
José M. Osorio, baiduhaiDerrick Rose stands with coach Tom Thibodeau as they have a photographed taken at Media Day.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau argues a call in the second half at the United Center.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau gives instructions to his players in the first half of a preseason game.
Michael Tercha, baiduhaiDerrick Rose poses for pictures with GM Gar Forman and coach Tom Thibodeau after a press conference regarding Rose's five-year, $94.8 million contract extension.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiBulls head coach Fred Hoiberg stands by as Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau yells out in the first half of a game at the United Center on Dec. 13, 2016.
Antonio Perez, baiduhaiBulls first-round round pick Marquis Teague is introduced to the media by Tom Thibodeau and GM Gar Forman.
Matt Marton, APTom Thibodeau directs the Bulls against the 76ers.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau argues a call in the second half at the United Center.
Ezra Shaw, Getty ImagesTom Thibodeau talks to Derrick Rose during their game against the Warriors at ORACLE Arena.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiMinnesota Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau is greeted by Bulls players Taj Gibson (22) and Jimmy Butler (21) before tipoff of a game at the United Center on Dec. 13, 2016.
Chris Graythen, Getty ImagesTom Thibodeau reacts to a play during the game against the Hornets.
Scott Strazzante, baiduhaiThe Heat's LeBron James collides with Tom Thibodeau during third quarter action at American Airlines Arena.
Michael Tercha, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau talks to general manager Gar Forman during a 2012 practice.
Dennis Wierzbicki-US PRESSWIRETom Thibodeau reacts to a call during the second half against the 76ers at the United Center. The Bulls won 89-80.
Andrew D. Bernstein, NBAEGetty ImagesThe Lakers' Kobe Bryant greets Celtics assistant Tom Thibodeau after practice for the 2010 NBA Finals.
Chris Walker, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau is introduced as the new Bulls head coach by General Manager Gar Forman.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau during the second half of the Bulls' game against the Nets at the United Center.
Nam Y. Huh, APBulls head coach Tom Thibodeau yells to his team during the first half of Game 4 against the Cavaliers.
John J. Kim, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau arrives for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Heat at American Airlines Arena.
Scott Strazzante, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau poses after being handed the NBA Coach of the Year trophy by GM Gar Forman at press conference.
Jim Mone / APTimberwolves' Karl-Anthony Towns and new coach Tom Thibodeau enjoy a laugh during a news conference announcing Town's selection as NBA basketball rookie of the year on May 16, 2016.
Scott Strazzante, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau complains about foul call in the second quarter against Knicks.
Scott Strazzante, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau in final seconds of the 76ers' 79-74 win in Game 3.
Armando L. Sanchez, baiduhaiBulls coach Tom Thibodeau yells from the bench against the Bucks during Game 3.
Nuccio DiNuzzo, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau yells at a referee after an offensive interference call against his team in overtime against the Nuggets at the United Center.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau has a laugh with a referee during game Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Brian Cassella, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau during a game at the United Center.
Chris Sweda, baiduhaiTom Thibodeau looks on while standing beside the Cavaliers' LeBron James in the second half of the Bulls 2014-2015 home opener.
Chris Sweda, baiduhai
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Tom Thibodeau tries to rally his team in the fourth quarter against the Bucks.
ExpandBy Bag Boy
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Oh, let the celebrations begin.
We thank the Blackhawks for (we hope) making quick work of the Minnesota Wild. Wrap it up early, guys, that’s what we like to see. Rest up for the conference finals.
However, the Bulls might be a different story. Even if they beat Cleveland—and here’s a news flash: they’re way, way better than LeBron James’ team—there’s a shadow hanging over the them.
It is of course the rift between Tom Thibodeau and Bulls management.
Only in Chicago. Only in Chicago could we have one of the best coaches in the league. A defensive mastermind who has done an amazing job of juggling about 100 roster combinations.
He’s also done an amazing job of handling the Derrick Rose situation, tiptoeing gently around the “will he or won’t he” talk night after night.
So, of course, amid all of this, we have a rift between Thibodeau and management.
“Oh that’s nothing,” you say. Oh, yeah? I was here in 1998 when they literally blew up a championship team and sold it off piecemeal.
You don’t see the word piecemeal enough in sports columns.
Anyway, as Shakespeare said, something is rotten in the state of Chicago/Denmark.
“Oh, winning will cure all of this,” they say.
I’m not so sure. Word is the Bulls are in love with Fred Hoiberg.
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Of course they are. He was a player during the Bulls glory years from 1999-2004.
The average number of wins during the Hoiberg era? Roughly 20. Thanks, Fred. “The Mayor,” they call him.
Mayor of Shanty Town.
So ponder that while I ponder the Bears’ future with Ryan Pace’s first draft. I call it the “Look, Ma! No Mistakes!” draft. He didn’t out-think himself like Phil Emery, which is nice. Good start.
Still, I wanted more John Fox in this draft. You know, stud pass rusher, amazing defensive lineman, that kind of thing. Lots of safe picks here. Nothing blows me away, though.
Of course, great franchises have been built by these drafts.
Speaking of great franchises, the Cubs. Millions in upgrades and they still trail the Cardinals.
The more things change …
Bag Boy is a RedEye special correspondent.
For more RedEye sports, click here.