When rookies Taj Gibson and James Johnson, both forwards, got drafted to the Chicago Bulls in the most recent draft, many were wondering if this would be bad news for Tyrus Thomas. Tyrus, who started for the Bulls as a forward for most of last season, has not been known as the most consistent player but has without a doubt improved since he first came to Chicago. Having a ridiculously large wingspan, blocking is something that comes naturally to him and has greatly helped the Bulls in terms of defense. He also has a drive that many players lack, and though sometimes this motivation turns into a bad temper when he is crossed, for the most part it gives him an edge used in a positive manner. And though his free-throws aren't yet perfect, he went from being a 60% shooter to a 74% shooter and last year got to 78%, showing improvement and a willingness to learn. His shot selection has also gotten better, though admittingly he could still use some work; not only in terms of shots he tries to make (three pointers are obviously not his forte) but also in terms of form, as sometimes a shot that should have gone in, doesn't, due to a slight incorrect flick of the wrist or awkward leg position. My bias aside, Tyrus has definitely worked hard to gain respect in the NBA and improve his skill and is not planning on stopping anytime soon. However, the question remains, has he improved enough to secure him a starting spot on the team?
Yesterday evening the Bulls battled it out with the Magic (the Bulls ended up losing 101-98) and in an unusual move regarding his starting line-up, Vinny Del Negro decided to put Taj Gibson in for Tyrus Thomas . Many, including myself, assumed this was to give Tyrus a rest, as he got injured in the Bulls first pre-season game, but a post-game interview soon corrected my assumption. Tyrus said he was "quite surprised" that he didn't start and then said "I don't think it should even be questionable from what I contributed to this team last season and what I did throughout camp, but like I said, he [Bulls coach Vinny Del Negro] is the guy that makes the decisions. Whatever decision he makes I still I have to go out and play."
To be honest this quote makes me chuckle every time I read it, solely due to the fact that everyone knows that the real Tyrus would never give such a bland answer, but instead would say something like..."let me just say this. I'm the starting power forward and I don't plan on playing anywhere but Chicago. Some may say I'm arrogant, or full of myself, some may even say I'm crazy! I'm just giving y'all the truth", which is what Tyrus posted on his personal blog after the draft took place. Tyrus may be playing nice for now, but I have a feeling that if Vinny replaces him for good, trouble will soon arise.
So should Taj go in for Tyrus? At this point, mostly due to the fact that I have not seen enough of Taj, I would say no. He may be a better scorer but his defense cannot even compare. And personally I think Tyrus' firery attitude makes watching the game even that more fun.
Only time will tell though. With a new season comes adjustments, adjustments no one will be able to see coming. And for better or for worse, both players and fans have to deal with whatever is decided.
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