I hope you all like head coaching news, because this post is almost all about head coaches and their present and future!

I Challenge You to a Duel

It’s being rumored that just a couple of weeks ago Bulls vice president John Paxson had provoked a fight with head coach Vinny Del Negro due to a disagreement in Joakim Noah’s playing time. After a March 30 game at the United Center, Noah had played 27 minutes against the Suns, but upper management was aiming for Noah to play much less minutes due to plantar fasciitis in his left foot. I really hope that this is some kind of sick joke because this is embarrassing for the Bulls, Paxson, and the NBA.

Here’s the problem: Del Negro said that these kinds of things are internal and he has no comment – which means it DEFINTELY did happen! Not only that, but he did admit there was an argument, but couldn’t confirm any pushing. It’s unfortunate that this would come out at all, but especially now, as the Bulls magic number to clinch the final playoff spot in the East is one.

Charles Barkley had some words when he heard that Paxson reportedly grabbed Del Negro by the tie, jabbed him in the chest twice and challenged him to a fight:

“The Bulls have disrespected Vinny Del Negro. The report came out [earlier] this year that they have fired Vinny but couldn’t find a replacement, and the Bulls didn’t say anything about it. That’s just bull. For some reason they don’t like Vinny. But for all the injuries, and losing (Ben Gordon) to Detroit, if Vinny gets them to the playoffs, that’s a good coaching job. He’s done a good job in Chicago.”

I can’t say much more about this, but the Bulls have to do something before next year because this team is becoming more and more ridiculous.

Tidbits:

• Celtics head coach Doc Rivers says he is leaning towards ending his coaching tenure after this season, to focus on family. Apparently Danny Ainge approached him about an extension, but Rivers said he needs to talk it over with the fam before making any decisions. He’s overrated as a coach, so he better not think anyone else would call down the road.

• The NBA won’t let any nepotism take place between Dell Curry and his vote for Rookie of the Year. His son, Stephen Curry joked he’s voting for Tyreke Evans anyway, but the NBA doesn’t want to leave it up to him.
• Current Bobcats coach Larry Brown inquired about the Clippers head coaching job, but the Clips aren’t about to go all out to try and bring back Brown. I’d say he’ll be the Sixers coach again.
• Nellie says he’ll be back next year in Golden State, despite already breaking the all-time wins record last week. Don Nelson is a funny guy, but he doesn’t have much time left as he turns 70 in May and health issues have always revolved around him.
• The Nuggets are optimistic that coach George Karl could be back for the 2^nd round as he continues his cancer treatment. I hope he’s back before then!

-Shooter