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Joakim Noah, please shut up

January 17, 2008 @ 8:49 am by Eddie Johnson · Filed under Ben Wallace, Chicago Bulls, Joakim Noah, Scott Burrell

Will someone please tell Chicago Bulls rookie Joakim Noah to shut up! I have never ever heard a rookie talk so much and be involved in so much controversy within the locker room. Noah, rookies are meant to be seen not heard. Shut up will you and learn.I blame this on the Bulls veterans for even allowing this rookie to feel like he is a spokesman. I remember when I was a rookie I was scared to open my mouth to say hi. I had players like Sam Lacey, Ernie Grunfeld, Leon Douglas, Phil Ford, Reggie King and Joe C. Meriweather who would slap me upside the head if I even breathed too loud.

I had to deliver a newspaper and donuts to those guys every day before they left the hotel room for practice. I only asked questions, I never suggested and I never talked loud enough to drown out their voices in a conversation.

Why?

Because as I told Scott Burrell (a rookie when I played with the Charlotte Hornets) when he asked me one day out of frustration, “Eddie, do you know everything?” I said, “No, Scott. You just know nothing!”

Scott and I are very good friends to this day and he always reminds me of that comment I made to him and today he understands why.

Rookies must learn, this is another level. Noah, I don’t think anyone has told you yet but you are not at Florida anymore. Yes, it was nice you won back-to-back titles. And yes, it was nice your team got along splendidly.

Guess what, that’s over and done with. Your reward was being drafted high and garnering a ton of attention, but now you are trying to earn the real deal contract. That is the contract that says you performed well at this level because until now the paycheck you are banking every month is based on what you did at Florida.

The Bulls don’t need a rookie explaining why he and Ben Wallace had an argument, which seems quite silly when you think about it, because Wallace has paid his dues and has a championship to boot.

Something tells me Noah feels like he knows how to win since he has two NCAA titles. Well, let’s put that team back together at this level and see where it gets you.

Here’s my advice to Noah: Just use that energy to keep improving and leave the talking to the veterans and listen because it’s called respect! Oh and yeah, please shut up.

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407 Comments

SiC Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 8:59 am

Respect for whom exactly on this team? Ben Wallace? Oh wait, this is meant to be funny, correct?
Rob Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:03 am

You hit it on the head, Joakim should keep his mouth shut but it’s the rest of the Bulls that are the problems. They are NOT leaders and are not star players.
Steve Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:04 am

amen to this post. I’ve been waiting for someone in the NBA world outside of the Bulls to be this blunt; the Chicago beat writers are actually defending Noah.

You speak the truth, Eddie Johnson.
Mallpha Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:05 am

general i think rookies should watch what they say and value every word but i geta bit of felling you did write that witha lot of anger Eddie its almost liek you would question this guy right to speak up his mind
CFatz Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:08 am

Well you’ve done it again Mr. Johnson. Once more opening the door to the NBA locker room. Thanx 4 letting us see what goes on inside. I recognize Joakim Noah as an energetic force off the bench. I don’t see him as a stiff, but neither do I see him as a really skilled NBAer. Do you think he’ll ever be a consistent and productitve contributer to a contender? Or will he always just be a tradeable contract to make someone elses numbers fit under a salary cap?

CF
Jon Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:12 am

well, that was articulate…
Sure Noah is maybe talking too much and thinks he knows much more than he does but i’m just glad to see someone on the Bulls showing signs of having a pulse.
And standing up to Ben Wallace is something i think needs to be done.
Jorel Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:24 am

Look at the bulls faces on that bench when they are down 20pts., 10 pts., hell even 8 with only 2 minutes left in regulation. I’ve seen more heart, more drive on the dancefloor of a senior center.

Sure his emotion could to be channeled, maybe even toned down a slight notch. But you can’t tell me that you don’t want that type of fire. Sure he is a rook. But he is also a man and a teamate, on a terrible team. It isn’t like he’s saying, “why would Pax not trade Ben force the shot gordon and tough but still a backup Nocioni for a better (defense and shoot creation) guard?” or “How in sam hell could we have picked Stromile Swift jr. a.k.a. Tyrus Thomas and not LaMarcus Aldrige?” Or even “we suck because Pax gave up on a stud in Tyson Chandler (not to mention E-City) and got back a year from a solid (i,e. underwhelming) P.J. Brown?”

He hasn’t even called out Big Ben for being overrated been. When Joe Smith and Noah are the only things that are a maybe in the paint for the sapless bulls, it’s not a good look. Regardless of what anyone EVEN a rookie says.
Jensen Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:37 am

Chris Duhon said the same exact thing Eddie(See below). So your post isnt unfair or biased in any way. I hope Noah learns from you and his teammates. Keep posting Eddie, I find you very insightful and appreciate the time you put into this blog!

Bulls guard Chris Duhon tells ESPN 1000 in Chicago about the Bulls’ struggles, and rookie Joakim Noah’s difficult adjustment:

“Joakim’s a great kid. He’s very energetic, he likes to speak his mind, which is a great — there are times for that. The thing that gets him in trouble is that he’s got to realize he’s a rookie. He hasn’t accomplished anything in this league yet. He’s only played like 30-something games. We know that he can be a great player, and I believe that he’s going to be a great player. But he’s got to leave what he accomplished in college with him being a national champion and all that. That’s irrelevant now. Now you’re in the NBA, now you need to make your own legacy. Everyone’s got their own scrapbook to say what they accomplished here and there. He should just be taking advantage of being able to learn from from veterans like Joe Smith and Ben Wallace and improving his game every day.”
yaya Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:37 am

This noah kid, really needs to shut his ” bug face up” rookies need to know their position, he’s getting paid to play not coach…i never liked this noah kid, my personal opinions, he plays and acts up for the cameras. Overrated as a college player, and i dont see him lasting long in NBA..whats he averaging like 3 ppg and 3 boards?..i know he’s not getting minutes, but maybe if he shuts his mouth ..he might
Michael Bennett Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:41 am

Although Noah is out of his element when he’s talking at press time, the old days of rookie hazing are (and should be) over. Sorry, Eddie, that you had to carry doughnuts and newspapers to the veterans every morning. But, Noah IS a proven winner, and winning two championships at the college level DOES matter in the NBA.

When Melo came to the Nuggets, I don’t think he had to pour coffee for Marcus Camby because Melo was the rookie. LeBron wasn’t shining Z’s shoes after games in his rookie season. And, it wasn’t because they were just talented. They earned a level of respect, in Melo’s case, by leading Syracuse to a championship, and in LeBron’s case, by signing a $90 million contract.

I think back-to-back college titles earns you a break on doughnut and newspaper duty. Remember Eddie, when you were a rookie, players could wear chains in the game. I’ll quote Mr. Zimmerman (again): “The times they are a changin’…”
Bron42 Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 10:24 am

first off, please dont EVER put lebron and melo in the same sentence as noah. thier on a whole nother planet. And too this day rookie hazing still goes on. Unless your some elite player who is gonna promise 20+ wins, the vets expect you to do what they say (if their legit vets and not just guys 3 years older than you). I mean if chris paul had to deal with hazing and just being called “rook” your tellin me noah is expected to be vocal when he is known less for his 2 championships and more for his antics while gettin them? Its just like a real job, sure they might not be gettin donuts and havin to carry the vets bags, but you still have to know your place. Bob in the mail room isn’t runnin his mouth about how he hates the senior VP either and keepin his job no matter how many degrees he has. same with noah.
Steve Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 10:28 am

I do not agree with this comment. Because someone is a rookie does not mean they have to be quiet like some baby or something. I know that I would have not been bringing doughnut’s and newspapers, because I am in a city to play basketball not be some kind of servant. Also, because someone has a championship ring does not mean the world by the tail. Sports writers should quit always saying that because someone has won a championship that they deserve a different kind of respect. The part I do agree with is that Noah should just be cool play his game and quit being so outspoken and that will keep hir out of trouble. Ending my comment is that I can see some players on the Bulls not liking Noah for reasons that are totally bull s__t.
Kevin Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 10:59 am

HAHAHAHA

Did that guy just compare Noah to Melo and Lebron James? I’ve seen and heard it all now.

Just because times are changing doesn’t mean respect and tradition should be altered. Noah was simply being disrespectful and out of line. “Hazing” of rookies isn’t just about degrading someone or bringing them back down to size… its honestly just prep. These future superstars and hall of famers need that year to just honestly be under the radar in the locker room. It seriously builds great character for those like Wade who earned the respect he has now. Noah needs to shut up…. he hasn’t earned the right to speak up whenever he wants..

and ROFL LMAO still at the comparision… oh jesus… hahaha… noah… bron… thats golden…
netsfan Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 11:00 am

I agree with bron42, the comparison of noah with lebron and melo is just stupid. it doesn’t matter where you’re picked in the draft, if you’re not getting minutes and contributing on the floor you should have a level of respect for the players in front of you that actually are. i think that was the main point of this article. And obviously championships mean something to scouts because it shows a level of poise from a player that can lead his college team to accomplish something like that, but the point was that it doesn’t translate directly to success in the NBA. Unless, you’re telling me that you would take Noah over Kevin Durant or Greg Oden this year because Noah won two championships at the college level and they didn’t.
Ronald Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 11:14 am

Oh please…

I agree Noah should watch his mouth most of the time, but if this post is meant as a reaction the the alleged ‘altercation’ he had with Wallace, i’m totally on Noah’s side.

As a lifelong Bulls fan, i was disgusted by the way Wallace was seen laughing and joking during that asswhipping that was referred to as an nba game. So instead of bashing Noah for showing a bit of frustration during that loss, Eddie, you should first and foremost write a post to tell Big Ben to actually start giving a crap about the current Bulls situation. He gets paid 60 million for it, and i haven’t see nany evidence this year that he does !!!

Maybe when you were a player rookies did have to shut up, great ! But you played against Jordan, so let me ask you this : Would Wallace have dared laugh like that on the bench during a loss like that when Jordan was still around. NO FUCKING WAY !! Jordan would have ripped his friggin’ heart out !
Nicoch Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 11:14 am

Very funny your discussion … hum … but not really interessant. Please choose another …
Vic Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 11:18 am

Will someone please tell Eddie Johnson to shut up. This is not a case of a rookie trying to usurp the leadership position of the veterans around him, on the contrary this is a case of a rookie with leadership ability forced into that role too early do to a lack of leadership by the veterans around him. The number one thing for a leader to do is to lead by example and while Noah’s game is not refined yet, he always hustles and plays with passion. No one on the Bulls, other that Joe Smith and Nocioni, can say that. The three “veterans” that have had problems with Noah have been Duhon, Wallace, and Griffen. Duhon, who is an average bench player on his best day. Duhon, who has made being late a career and who has on several occasions gotten into altercations with coaches. Griffen is another bench player who barely contributes normaly and is feeling a little too important now that the talent around him has fallen to a point that makes him look significant. Then there is Wallace. Wallace who has had problems with coaches everywhere he has been. Wallace who refused to be a team captain this year but now wants to be in charge. Wallace who since signing a huge contract with the Bulls is the top candidate for the “All-Time Standing Around Award”. So when Noah makes comments to the affect of don’t laugh and joke on the bench when we are down by 20 points, or that our team doesn’t hate to lose enough, it isn’t capricious youth. It is a natural leader being forced to prematurely fill a role that has been vacated by the veterans. The conflict comes from those same veterans who don’t resent the fact that a kid is telling them what to do, but the fact that that kid is right.
me2008 Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 11:20 am

Noah is the biggest tool to walk the earth. I honestly feel he should be set on fire in front of public view. What a piece of crap.
jorel Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 11:48 am

Vic hit it right on the head. He may not be the best player on the team. But where is the heart from the other players? There are no leaders on that team. Deng, Hinrich, Gordon, all good solid players that should be the 3rd option on a good team, are not vocal leaders, nor are they guys that you would call passionate about winning or losing. Ben Wallace as a leader, please, this guy did what he was supposed to do on a talented team (one which allowed him to disappear for stretches of the season on offense-deetroit basketball) but is clearly overpaid, over matched, outclassed, and miscast as a team leader.

Of course Noah could learn the nuances of the game from the vets, but you cannot teach, instruct, nor coach passion, heart and drive.

The guy is honest. If vets want to quiet that, f’ em.

And duhon pretty much says, “hey he can be good, but he makes us look bad because he cares too much. This isn’t college. Stop caring. Be dishonest. Look into the camera and carry on with B.S. about this being a long season, we have to play as a team, blah, blah, blah. And calm down on the emotion, you make us look like veteran accomplished well paid players discussing Tuesday nights plans after another beating in which we quit midway through the third. Watch out for our delicate egos.”
sad1944 Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 11:52 am

Your column was dead on. But Noah does give us a breath of fresh air. I for one am tired of watching spoiled over-paid athletes whine constantly. Why is it every NBA player has to whine that he didn’t really commit a foul? All of these players need to grow up. Not only should rookies respect vets, but vets need to respect the game.
Calvin O Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 12:14 pm

I understand your feelings about rookies knowing their place, but this seems to me to be another example of the Bulls getting what they asked for. Just like last year’s Ben Wallace headband debacle where they sign a guy whose trademark for years has been his headband and then try to tell him that it is unacceptable and anti-team to wear it, the Bulls had to have known that Noah’s personality is that of a goofy non-stop talking guy who clowns around, wears crazy clothes, crazy hair-styles, acts up on camera, etc., etc– remember his tv interviews during the NCAA tounaments? I prefer a rookie who is being himself and passionate about winning over a bunch veterans who look like they’ve given up any day.
Liogiery Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 12:15 pm

100% with Ronald’s comment

Bulls dont have ONE leader. This players dont haver personnality.
It’s easy to condemn a rookie, it’s more difficult to say at Wallace “HE ben, stop lazy time, play basketball”, to Hinrich “give the ball”…

Sorry Eddy, but rookie or not rookie, when you’re a winner, you can’t accept to loose by 25 and see teamates laugh. It’s IMPOSSIBLE…
craig beckerman Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 12:26 pm

after reading everyones comments my only idea and comment is what if noah was on the celtics? where hed have the big 3 who do give a crap about the game the way its supposed to be played, not only would chicago lose its “headache” since thats what you think a player caring is, but im sure noah wouldnt mind carrying a bag or two if he actually played with professionals. eddie you had the chance to play in a truly proffesional era when players acted that way so far noah hasnt seen that and apparently he would like to, and i cant blame him for that
Kim Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 12:43 pm

So Eddie are you saying that every rookie should be a bitch like you was!
Salva Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 12:46 pm

Excellent post Eddie !

I totally agree that Noah has to take a step back and let the veterans (but which one ??) take the vocal lead.
It seems that Noah knows that he’s a smart guy (and he is) but his youth just don’t activates the right buttons.
I like this guy and a rookie shoud have the right to give his opinion in-house but not publicly..Noah has a big ego and thinks that respect is gained in beeing vocally involved in critical situation but respect is earned ON THE COURT !!
An advice Noah: just relax, stay cool and enjoy this rare ride !
saleem Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 1:17 pm

I’m shocked Eddie. Normally your editorials display more depth and insight. The attitude that a rookie should have no opinion or prominence is a symptom of the rampant egotism that makes bad NBA teams bad. Pecking orders are for birds not men. Noah is “Exactly who
we thought he was!” and is refreshingly honest and passionate. Can he be annoying? Sure. But he is a champion, like it or not, and frankly he has outperformed Big Ben on the court this season. His play dictates the weight of his opinion. He’s right they shouldn’t be happy about getting run. Sorry Eddie your just plain wrong.
BRockin25 Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 1:32 pm

No rookie should ever call out an NBA Champion for his conduct, and suggest that he doesnt know how to win.

Great article.
sonnydelite Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 1:49 pm

Just wait until Noah starts making real NBA money. Then he’ll shutup and become lazy like other NBA players who sign large contracts … they just give up!! The NBA should change their contracts by giving money on a performance / productivity basis. These guys will earn their money and not sit around the beach laughing when they are losing. I am tired of this crap. Go LAKERS!
The Truth Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 2:03 pm

I’m not so sure Eddie. I think Noah is an emotional player who talks from the heart and is doing his thing. Rookie or not his team is complete garbage this year and it is completely predicated on the attitude of his teammates and their lack of desire. If Ben Wallace played with the heart Noah has this year Wallace might look like he can still play the game. How many players on the Bulls roster won back to back championships in college? I am not saying the players have to listen to Noah or that he should be a team leader but I think letting a player like that express his emotions and give the dead bulls team some life is not exactly a bad thing. Yes he will mess up, but until someone on the bulls can get some balls and be man enough to lead the team and disipline Noah in the locker room, not by being a coward and voting that the coach discipline him I dont think the bulls will be a quality team. Think about what Michael Jordan or Larry Bird would do to a rookie speaking out? Do you think they would cry to the coach like a little girl or would they man up and show who the team leader is? Nuff said
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 2:06 pm

You know what EJ, I am really tired of listening to you. You are such a condescending A-hole. You act like you are always right, never wrong, and frankly, it’s getting really old. Your whole, I told you so act is played out. In fact, whenever I hear you on the suns broadcast, if there is a choice, I’ll turn in on some other network just cause of you. My friend works at the Wells Fargo bank that you go to in Scottsdale and McDonald and says you and your wife are arrogant. “You don’t know who I am? Why do I need to show my ID? Everyone knows who I am?” Give me a break buddy. You were a 6th man in the league and hardly what I would call a star. You’re not in the HOF, in fact you never even made an All-Star team. So do us all a favor and lose the ego. BTW, what’s wrong with a Rookie expressing his emotion on a losing team. It’s one thing if you’re on a team like the Spurs and complain about a lack of passion to win a championship when you’re rookie. But, the Bulls suck! They lack heart, they lack a low post presence, they need to play with energy to compensate, and they currently don’t do so. I don’t blame the guy for speaking out. You and Ben Wallace should lose your ego’s. Both of you are has beens!
tom Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 2:08 pm

Chicago has several very good players, but neither of them are franchise players. Overpaying big ben and getting rid of curry and chandler are the biggest mistakes for the team. This post is a good reflection of what the team is missing right now.
KevinConnor Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 2:21 pm

So a rookie should shut up unless his name is Lebron or Melo or Kobe?
What aload of crap.I thought everybody in the US of A was so crazy about Freedom of speech. Well I guess that doesn´t apply to most rookies in the NBA right? You´re full of crap Eddy! Just because you weren´t man enough as a rookie and got jerked around by your teammates every rookie should be treaten the same. They are simply a little bit more assertive than you Eddy! I know that hurts.
Dylan J Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 2:43 pm

Who else is gonna speak up on this squad?? It’s not like Noah does it out of disrespect. I love ya, Eddie but The kid’s got more heart than many vets his squad.

**** +1 BEN WALLACE IS A TOTAL CLOWN ****

As a *former* fan of BIG BENEDICT from his days as a Piston, I’m LAUGHIN’ AT those CHI-town fans who thought they pulled off such a coup when the Bulls landed him. (no disrespect to more fair-minded Bulls fans) Stuck on the bench of a LOOSING TEAM, Ben? Thanks what we like to call “KARMA” my friend!
Joris Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 2:45 pm

Sure, some people are mature enough for not being educated by guys like Ben Wallace who doesn’t seem really smart.

More than that : while I think the guy cared once upon a time the fact is since its big contract he doesn’t give a crap, especially this year so Noah has every right too shake him.

And by the way what are we talking about ? Do we know what has been exactly said ?
SiC Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 2:58 pm

Better yet, trade Noah. I’ll bet he’d be happy to get out. Keep Big Ole’ Ben in, I’m sure the rest of the league is enjoying this after the Jordan era. Big props to Big Ben. Raking in the cash, firing a coach, and putting a rook in his place.
Eric Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 3:00 pm

I think that Ben Wallace needs to start acting like a leader on court, not just off court. Right now Noah is thye only one busting his ass out there on the court, and the team suspends him. nice. I see the Bulls are going far this year.
pj Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 3:31 pm

eddie,
i usually enjoy reading your entries, but you are so incredibly wrong on this one it’s pathetic. I’ve been a die hard bulls fan my whole life, so this is coming from somebody who watches every game and reads every article there is about them. This team is so lazy and has no passion, and Joakim, like this entire city, is sick of it. So while Joakim Noah should not have lashed out at a coach, he did it because the veterans are not being veterans. They are not leading by example, because they aren’t playing like they have a chip on their shoulder like they did before. Joakim just wants people to care, and NOT laugh on the bench with another veteran when your down by 20. You cannot possibly say Ben Wallace is justified as he has been the laziest, waste of money, controversy starting person this whole year for us. I mean I’m dissapointed with this one Eddie, just because you were a veteran and treated rookies like rookies does not mean Joakim is automaticly wrong because he’s a rook. He just wants to win and for us to play with passion, and not just accept losing and laugh about it.
BullsNut Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 4:18 pm

Eddie you should shut up. All you are good at is sounding like a moron. This is not so bad for the Bulls. The Bulls need a little trouble on the squad. Again you should shut up.
Junior Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 4:21 pm

this dude Noah is a fuckin clown
BullsNut Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 4:25 pm

Hey Sic:

Don’t you wish you could have enjoyed the Jordan era??
Petro Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 4:56 pm

I think the Bulls have plenty of “trouble” on this team. They don’t need another mouth; especially from a rookie!

That’s insane!
Brian Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 5:31 pm

This is ridiculous. How can Noah NOT be compared to Melo and Lebron? Skill level has nothing to do with carrying players things and getting them donuts. Noah won TWO national championships and would’ve been a #1 overall pick if he came out last year. Is he as talented as Melo and Lebron? Of course not. But that isn’t what the original poster was saying, so shut up and stick to the subject.

The league is run by young players right now, and I agree with (almost) everything Noah has done. Anyone who actually watches Bulls games know that Ben Wallace is playing like he has cement in shoes. The guy is slow and an offensive liability. His poor play on Dwight Howard led to the Bulls getting blown out. The guy is overpaid, but he is unfortunately stuck on the Bulls.

Noah has every right to call out “Big” Ben in the locker room. Noah has every right to be upset about the Bulls record. Noah has every right to speak out to reporters about whatever he wants. No one else on the Bulls does it.

I promise you this… if the Bulls turn it around, it will be because of Noah’s heart and energy on the court, not his ability to stay quiet and get the newspaper for the vets.
Rashidi Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 5:36 pm

So if Noah is calling out Ben Wallace for not being the veteran leader you claim him to be, he should not say anything because he’s a rookie?

What kind of conformist BS is that?

“Eddie, do you know everything?” I said, “No, Scott. You just know nothing!”

You seem to have this conversation with a lot more than NBA rookies… Come on Edward people are bashing you before I even got here.
will Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 5:45 pm

jokim noah would get whomped it a fight with big ben
noah does deserve more minutes, and should respect the veterans
but i dont see anyone else talking on their team, and will they make a trade already, how bout ben wallace15mil,& b.gordon say 10mil, , &, for vince carter16mil&j.mcgloire7mil

bulls get a tall shooting guard, a ticket seller, a maybe 3more year at least allstar, get rid of ben wallaces contract, and i guess draft roy hibbert,koufos,thabeet, or somebody

g-hinrich g-duhon
g-v.carter
f-deng f-nocioni
f-j.smith f-t.thomas
c-noah c-hibbert

and hey eddie what is houston going to do
when are they going to get rid of one or 2, of their pgs
and how come tmac&yao dont really paow
Lee Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 6:09 pm

Why should Noah shut up. If the team is loosing, let Noah put his money where his mouth is. Ben Wallace is a great ball player, but he”s not a superstar. He “s proven that he can make a mistake. Like leaving Detoit. Let the young man go to work they are loosing now.
I love Ben Wallce , but let face it Noah is the new face of the franchise.
saleem Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 6:10 pm

I’m shocked Eddie. Normally your editorials display more depth and insight. The attitude that a rookie should have no opinion or prominence is a symptom of the rampant egotism that makes bad NBA teams bad. Pecking orders are for birds not men. Noah is “Exactly who
we thought he was!” and is refreshingly honest and passionate. Can he be annoying? Sure. But he is a champion, like it or not, and frankly he has outperformed Big Ben on the court this season. His play dictates the weight of his opinion. He’s right they shouldn’t be happy about getting run. Sorry Eddie you’re just plain wrong.
Olyve Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 6:19 pm

Please Eddie, I’ve always thought what u were saying was right, but man, u can’t talk about respect while u r writting such papers. Noah might be a rook, he still deserves respect… And not sure ur friend Scott appreciated. U are older than those players, so if if i follow ur idea, u should know more about life than they do. But again, your rookie silence hasn’t teached u to respect people: “Oh and yeah, please shut up.” Who the hell u think u are??

So please keep being interesting and stop blaming people just to have something to write and make react, be instructive…

Thx anyway
anthony Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 6:28 pm

I agree with you Eddie. Noah should keep his mouth shut. But it is not for me or you to say. The team leader should straighten his ass out.

I think Noah flapping his jaw is more telling of the lack of leadership on that team. I believe a true leader would have ran his butt off the court and expect the coach to fully support that.

A rookie calling out veterans only destroys team chemistry. This guy is a bad element for the team. The sad thing is he doesn’t know any better. He is just a goofy kid that’s probably been spoiled most of his young adult life and knows nothing about respect.

I agree with your old school ways that a rookie should have his place.
eddie Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 6:37 pm

it is funny how you guys are telling me to shut up! lol

sometimes i think some of you people cant read or better yet comprehend what i am saying.

the ability to speak your mind in a new setting is earned not taken.

Some of you guys that are yapping now would never go into your workplace and talk loud over your upper management and become a spokesman as soon as you are hired.

The Bulls know how to win because they have done just that.

Michael Bennett—Noah winning an NCAA champioship means jack at this level and if you want to get technical—-he was the fourth best player on his team. don’t ever compare a hustle guy with the skill set of Lebron or Melo—what are you smoking? lol.

let me get you wanna be NBA players in on something else——they still do haze rookies in our league and it has never stopped.—–don’t think the newspapers tell you everything because thats what you depend on and of course yours truly.

what it takes is them being shut up early and the mistake the Bulls veterans made and it goes for some other teams is they didnt jump him earlier.

some of you sillies took that as me ripping on Noah——im trying to help the young man because if he does not shut his trap and just learn how to go shoot a jumper he will be out the league in 4 years.

why? because he is one knee injury away from being non existent with no offensive skills.

why did Chris Webber and Danny Manning last long after devastating knee injuries? they could offer offense.

So i say again ——SHUT UP —— and listen to your coaches and don’t argue with them and SHUT UP——and seek out and listen to your veterans and learn how to play the NBA game—–thats for you Michael Bennett..

This is not college and again it means nothing at this level—–this is a league of what have you done for me lately not what you did before.

Last i checked the only thing Noah has done is run his mouth.

for the guy who said i was weak to give into veterans—–no numbskull—-i was smart—-i learned something and lasted 17 years—go check how many lasted longer. lol
anthony Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 6:39 pm

I’ve read some of the comments and I am surprised how some sensitive some ppl are.

Obviously political correctness has taken away their manhood. Anyone who has played team sports knows their needs to be a pecking order to maintain unity and define leadership. Knock the guy down if he gets in your face, this is a mans game.

I’m sure the media loves the antics of Noah, but it makes his teamates look foolish and takes away from the authority of the coach.

Noah won a championship in the NBA, but he isn’t even an average rookie.
eddie Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 6:52 pm

kim

you forgot to put smart in front of B. Sorry if i hurt your wanna be Noahs Girlfriend feelings! make sure you forward this to him so he might get you a ticket for a preseason game next year. lol
SiC Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 6:54 pm

This has been a pretty good read!
eddie Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 6:58 pm

Olyve

He has gotten respect man—what are you talking about? he was drafted and is being paid well to develop his basketball game——–NOT HIS MOUTH! Rookies must earn respect it is not given. What job have you been employed where a guy comes in and starts talking and challenging upper management and employees the first three months.

WAKE UP PEOPLE—–basketball is not fantasy, its a business at the NBA level. Stop thinking it is. be thankful you have me to give you some insight.

By the way, KIM you really hurt my feelings. i have never been called that word. lol
eddie Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 7:01 pm

Rashidi

I only tell you that because you write thirty paragraphs to get your point across.

you finally wrote something short enough for me to read without falling asleep.
eddie Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 7:03 pm

i would imagine none of you guys own your own company and if you do please tell me that new employees are not allowed to come in and start telling your experienced workers what to do and cursing out upper management! when they only have 3 moths experience at that level.
eddie Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 7:03 pm

months
eddie Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 7:18 pm

sunsfanwhohateseddie

Wow! tell your friend who works at the bank to say hi next time. i thought i heard someone turn off the telecast last week was that you?

seriously, let your friend know that he or she might have caught me on a day i was in a hurry and to not take it personal. i am truly a fun loving personable guy.

i would also like to meet you and give you a handshake or hug because you sincerely have the wrong impression of me. finally confidence sometimes can be mistaken for arrogance.

i hope you had a wonderful holiday season SUNS FAN! next time you are at a game come say hi and get to know me and not voice your opinion on what someone else says. ok (-:

now back to basketball. you forgot to say i still played a wonderful 17 years with no athletic ability with your other stuff. (-:
Breiz Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 7:52 pm

Eddie, about your analogy with Business and owning a company.
If I was the owner of a company that was failing at its principal objective (in our case, winning games..) the way the Bulls are, I am not sure that I would mind a newbie coming in and not being happy because his “seniors” are not doing the part the company hired them for !
You are correct that this would be “allowed” only in extreme situations … maybe the Bulls are not that far away from needing a Rook “f..ing” up things a little…
True though that : Noah - most likely - shut up and try to learn what you can basketball wise from those guys ..
Vomitgod Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 7:53 pm

Hey Eddie….

Is it possible that you don’t really know what happened in the locker room? Where you there? Seriously…maybe you should know all the facts before you tell somebody to shut-up.

I’m a life-long Bulls fan (yeah…even through the Ron Mercer era) and watch every game. One thing the Bulls have lacked the past few years is flare. This is not only part of Noah’s personality, but his game. Do you suggest we mute him and possibly crush his spirit? Then he would really be usless. He’s not the best player, but he makes up for it with passion and hustle. Can you imagine working your ass off,getting killed and looking over on the bench and see a 60 million dollar player laughing? It’s about time somebody called out Wallace.

…and Eddie, I’m pretty sure you would kick my ass all over the court but I haven’t seen someone use so many “lol”s and NOT be a teenage girl.
Calvin O Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:14 pm

Ben Wallace is averaging 8.8 rebounds a game, 4.5 points, and shooting 33% from the field. If you are going to say Noah’s 2 college championships don’t mean jack right now, then I’m going to say that Wallace’s one NBA championship when he was on a great team with 4 other very good starters is past history too. The point is he is being paid 14 million THIS year and hasn’t lived up to expectations and isn’t even the equal of the guy he replaced, Tyson Chandler. That’s the real problem.
Joahkim shut up and play Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:21 pm

You are exremly correct. although Noah can play ball, He has not earned his right to speak. Shut up play, make your money, go home!!!
pj Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 9:56 pm

Eddie,
After reading some of your repsonses, I have one issue about your arguments. You keep comparing the NBA to a job at an office. No disrespect my man, cause you were in the league a lot longer then I’ll ever be, but you cannot seriously directly compare a normal workplace and the NBA. Yeah it’s the same idea, go out, work hard, do well, earn more money based on good performance. Like I said before, I watch every single Bulls game, and I have no problem with you saying Joakim is a rookie and he needs to know his place. The fact of the matter is that the veterans are not doing what is necesary to turn around. Noah deserved his suspension and the team extending it, you don’t act off to your coach (or assistant coach) like that, just like in the real world, you don’t act off to your boss. BUT YOU CANNOT SAY BEN WALLACE IS RIGHT IN ALL THIS. He is the biggest joke of this franchise. He is overpaid and caused controvery right from the start, making a huge deal over a headband. Notice he did not even want to be a captain this year, in the meeting where Skiles said raise your hand if you want to be captain, HE DIDN’T. So for him to act like a leader after not wanting the responsibility says something about the man. He is going off blaming others, while playing terrible basketball and disrupting the game. On offense he takes terrible shots that everyone knows he can’t make, and on defense he has cement shoes. All I ask is that you say Joakim is wrong in acting off to the vets, but Ben Wallace is a cancer to this team, and has not been justified in saying jack about Noah or anything, because he has not done anything in his career, other then be told don’t ever shoot, just rebound on a championship team. His weaknesses are blatent, both on the court and off…give the rook a lil credit, or at least take it away from ben
Kevin Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 10:09 pm

Hey now,

Every piston player will tell you that Ben Wallace was their anchor on that defensive minded and disciplined championship team.. he offered more than just hustle.. he shut down every big man on the opposing team period. His stats were nuts for a guy completely dependent on defense. Watching him intimidate and torture teams with his inside presence was worth every penny he earned then.

What did Noah do for his Gators? Offer energy… just soak in rebounds and pitty points from a very talented and smart team? I’d be scared of him and his ugly mug too if he yelled at me though.

Even today you can’t compare Noah to Wallace.. you can’t compare Noah to any decent player in the NBA.

Gator fans please hop off Noah’s testicles.
Paul Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 10:29 pm

Eddie, grow up. Never have I heard such ignorance from an NBA columnist, if you can even call yourself one. Part of the reason the Bulls drafted Noah was because of his outgoing personality. It sure as hell wasn’t because he’s an inside scorer (he’s not).Noah should respect Ben Wallace? The same Ben Wallace who can’t even average 8 boards a game despite making $15 million per year? I’ll leave his offensive game alone, as we all know how bad THAT is. You sure make A LOT of sense Eddie.
Rashidi Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 10:59 pm

LMAO Eddie RAGED

There is a difference between criticizing upper management and criticizing your peers.

Don’t think for a minute that Joakim Noah is on the same peer level as a rookie like JamesOn Curry (recently arrested for peeing in public).

Noah is an expressive guy who wants to win. He sees a veteran living off his reputation joking around on the bench. Make no mistake, Ben Wallace’s play this year is the main reason the Bulls have a poor record. The Bulls are playing 4 on 5 on offense, hell, maybe 3 on 5 because Wallace’s offense has been that bad. A big averaging 4 points in 32 minutes, shooting 33% from the field is flat out PATHETIC.

Ben Wallace’s FG% is 14 points lower than his FT%. Considering the dude is a 41% FT shooter for his career, when did anyone ever expect that to happen? Embarrassing, putrid, I can’t really find a word strong enough to describe it. Grotesque? And that’s before we even mention Ben is making 15.5 million dollars this year.

Noah is averaging as many points as Wallace. IN 20 FEWER MINUTES.
The Bulls are LAST in the league in FG%, thanks very much in part to Wallace. They are 23rd in the league in scoring. If Wallace is no longer getting it done on defense the way he used to, and no longer cares about the team’s success, it’s time for a change.

Wallace got a lot of credit in Detroit but the fact is, he was playing with other veterans who have managed to keep winning without him, while Ben has gone to another team and not improved it on the court or in the lockerroom.
Steve Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 11:15 pm

So Eddie, you’re saying because Noah is a rookie he shouldn’t be able to show passion, speak his opinion, and get into Ben Wallace’s face? I’d rather have Noah’s passion then Ben Wallace’s career perpetual puerile behavior. Paxson should tell Ben to go home and wait by the phone and give his minutes to the “Rookie.”
Manila Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 11:40 pm

Hi eddie,

I just want to say that I do not agree with your post, I am in a management post, and I also have my own business. If I have an overpaid manager, in the bull’s case Big Ben, and my business is doing a 180 from last year’s performance, I wouldn’t mind a lowly employee (Noah) from voicing his disgust. As top management, it will not look good if I directly confront my manager, so we’ll wait how Ben reacts.

I don’t care anymore about your past stardom once you accept my job offer, the job description is clear, I’m overpaying for clearly less results, and it disrespects me more when you think it’s ok to laugh in view of your office office mates.
BullsNut Said,

January 17, 2008 @ 11:54 pm

Man Eddie you are so full of yourself. I’m sickened by your messages. I think the only people that have a problem with Noah is the media and non-bulls fans.
Liogiery Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 12:04 am

If Bulls were a company, today, it will be a company where experienced workers stay all day long at the coffee machine, laughting while the company lost and lost and lost $$

But NBA is not just a buisness. It’s SPORT (do you remember what is it?)

The problem with a lot of experiments NBA players, they dont remember that. They play like they’re going to the factory. Without heart, passion… all emotions that do sport.

(sorry for my english)
djhott Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 1:47 am

im sure kobe wanted to talk as a rookie, but didnt
and if i was disrespected by a rookie and i was a aging veteran on the hot seat, I would take that as motivation and school the rookie and improve my game and stats for myself and my team. but as for is altercation with the assistant coach, unless he was saying im 7ft and energetic, give me some minutes. then he should be quite.

yea wannabe nba players, lol, eddie that hurt, lmao
the bulls just needed something to start up real trade talk, noah is used to winning, and probably is getting pumped up anyway he can with the losing, not enough minutes, and playing with a undersized 2pt scorer who makes 15mil and 8 or 9 boards, and is jealous knowing, that he is a injury away from being,garbage,and even if not with gms, seeing all the overpaid bigs, he may never get a 15mil contract. but i still see if he listens,more than he talks, stays healthy, and gets minutes, he could be a poor mans tyson chandler, or better than pj brown. but thats if he plays all his cards right. but who on the bulls statistically, vocally, could say anything to noah. they need to step their game up, before they get shiped in a trade, and id love to play in chicago. jokim just wants a promotion to fast, and the manager(coach) just got fired. and the vets-(gordon,hinrich,wallace,thomas), seemed to not came back from their vacation(offseason).So slacking employees, and promoted supervisors, need to all work together in a professional way.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 1:56 am

Please Eddie that was weak, almost like your game. That friend also said you ALWAYS do that when you come in with your white escalade and that everyone at the bank can’t stand when you folks come in, unlike say other celebrities for example, George Benson.

“i thought i heard someone turn off the telecast last week was that you?”
What a response, I guess I can tell all that tutoring you received at Illinois paid off.

Give me a break Eddie, you’re an arrogant prick and I’m betting I’m not the first to tell you. I met you before and I can’t stand your smug.

Back to basketball, judging by your post, what a typical former athlete response! Typical condescending attitude..”you wanna be NBA players”. I can’t stand when former athletes give that response with no substance. We get it, you played in the NBA, you’re almost like the Michael Irvin or Keyshawn Johnson without all the yelling. What are they without the yelling…idiots with a mic. Why don’t you offer some solid insight. Maybe you can ask you’re current boss Steve Kerr. He was great at it and didn’t use the typical…”well marv you don’t understand how hard it is cause you never played but you always listen to your elders”. WEAK!

And Eddie, yes new employees wouldn’t go into a situation and start telling people WHAT to do, especially if they are new. But, employees are expected to speak their mind if they see something wrong. This isn’t socialist society, we should be able to speak our mind. There is nothing wrong, in fact most companies bring in fresh blood through recent college graduates to change things up in the workplace and to bring energy to the workforce. I hope you see where I am getting?? Maybe you’re still stuck in the 1950’s where young rookies are like women and are below dirt.

Yes Noah should work on his game and get stronger, but complaining about a lack of passion and getting in the face of an overpaid, underachieving, overrated vet should not be criticized.
djhott Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 2:07 am

and the warriors have loud veterans. i here they are offering
g-m.ellis,m.pietrus,b.wright,pick for zack randolph,nate robinson

me being a gs state fan, i would do that in a minute, and zack being a greedy but skilled new employee, i would command he learn what a team is, and only plays in the post, and watch them excede, because that would be the perfect team for z.randolph. if you a on the right team, then you can play alot better, but players are not always put on their perfect team.
and could u imagine gs, they could go any lineup

g-b.davis g-bellini-g.payton
g-n.robinson g-azubeke
f-s.jack f-m.barnes
f-z.randolph f-harrington 30mpg
c-biedris
nate would shine in oakland also

bulls will probably make more bad management moves and suck for the next 5 years
saleem Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 3:23 am

I don’t thing that the “eddie” responding in the comments is actually
Eddie. If it is, then he seems to have lost his ability to punctuate, capitalize, and write coherent sentences. If not it’s probably some 15yr old who has finally discovered that on the internet no one can tell your a dork. They can only strongly suspect it.
DPGC Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 3:30 am

@ sunsfanwhohateseddie , you’re gay dude, don’t you understand it’s a man’s league and there’s hierarchy there? You probably never played any team sports, because if you did you would know that every team has it’s leaders and no first year player can fuck around with them. It’s like being in the army, you gotta earn your stripes. Noah is a spoiled kid and he really needs to shut the fuck up, I haven’t seen a rookie that gets on people’s nerves as much as him in a long time. I’m with Eddie 100%
Julien Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 3:37 am

I read words like “respect”, “paying your dues”…

Don’t you think that the first persons players should show “respect” and “pay their dues” first to the people who contribute to pay their salary, like the public?

Don’t you think that “respecting” the public, “paying your dues” to him, starts with playing hard, giving everything you have?

Do you really think that Wallace is doing that? Shall I remind you his salary, and his stats this year?

Oh and yeah, please shut up. You just confirm that NBA players are paid for their game, not their brains.
Whatever! Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 3:41 am

Put it on record that Eddie Jordan supports hazing in the NBA. A rookie should be able to call out his teammates—especially those making $15MM a year to pull down 5 points and 5 rebounds a game.
Joris Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:43 am

Above I tested if the blogger’s name was linked with his e-mail but it’s not the case so anybody can post with the name eddie but imho it was him above saleem.

Eddie, sometimes your articles are good but in them or the comments following you’re always like “I’m better than everybody” so what’s the point of letting people comment ?

You want only the eddie is a god stuff ?

Open your eyes man, do you see these types of comments on somebody else blog ?
Hell no, I’d be you I’d think about myself and the megalomaniac thing but before you say it I’ll say it : “I’m not you, not an ex NBA player so I can shut the fuck up”.
Joris Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:47 am

Hu right…
Before my 4:43am comment I posted a test message which was actually displayed but when I posted my 4:43am comment the test message has disappeared so I don’t know if you can use the same name with a different e-mail.
BRITTNEY SPEARS/LOHAN Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:59 am

HEY EDDIE FOR YOUR RUDE COMMENTS, I AM PERSONALLY GOING TO BOOTLEG 5000 COPIES OF YOUR SHOTCLUB DVD, SINCE IM NOT IN THE NBA AND ALL, OR OWN MY OWN BUSINESS
HEY EDDIE HOW BOUT U DONATE YOUR SHOTCLUB TAPE TO CHRIS DUHON.

I WILL SELL THE TAPES FOR$10, BUT CAN YOU AUTOGRAPH A FEW FOR ME?
Juan Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 5:16 am

well, i guess things have changed and now rookies have more power. anyway, Noah a.k.a “my fridge is always full” will end up in 5 years playing pro basketball in old Europe. Not an NBA type player and has a big mouth.
Thomas Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 5:44 am

Ah C’mon Eddie,

i hate these silly, “you know back in the day” and “when i was a rook” talking.
maybe its a strange comparison, but back in the days the blacks were distracted because they were, uhm, black. Should it be still that way today?? Or is the History not a Way to learn from Mistakes and Adjust!!
Same with the NBa, i mean C#mon, how many Nba Players can be called Serious?? Most of them are silly, dumb-ass bitches who care bout money, shots and maybe bitches. And if there’S Someone like Noah or Bogut who really got something to say and can talk properly besides the “we played well” Nba approved Phrase catalogue, why the Hell they shouldn’t????
Yeah i know, because its always been this way, yeah rite! But thats really stupid…
Paul Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 8:49 am

Eddie, the last time I checked, the last time Ben Wallace grabbed more than 7 boards was when he was re-doing his kitchen. “What have you done for me lately?” Please elaborate on what Ben Wallace has done for the Bulls lately. No one gives a fuck how long you played in the NBA man. We get it, you played in the NBA! Every single column you write is based upon that. You think Joakim is mouthy? Do you ever proof read your columns? At least he’s out there playing. Ben Wallace was signed by the Bulls based on his years of service to the Pistons, not on what he was going to do for them. He was 31 when he signed that contract. A 6′9 C with virtually no offensive game. How much upside did he possibly have left? Joakim Noah wants to win, Ben Wallace wants to get paid and live off his rep. There’s a reason Detroit is even better now than when they had Big Ben.
manou Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 8:57 am

I don’t agree with this article.

Was Noah wrong for biching at the coach? HELL YES!

Was Noah wrong for bitching at bigBen laughing on the bench? HELL NO!!!
Fredd Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 9:20 am

Hi Eddie …
First I respect you, and still have a poster of the Charlotte Hornets ( L.J, Zo, Hersey, Mugsy and You ) on my former bedroom’s wall.

BUT … I am not agree with you … it’s not that I am french … but I think, when the best paid player and veteran on your team is struggling ( as a player ) … you have to wait from him to be humble, and go by to work to show the direction to the teamates and more over, to the Rookies …

Noah is not a rookie like the others, He is a champion … you have to know … in France, … when he’s father was the trainer of the national tennis team, ( they won Davis cup more than one time ) … Journalists interviewed this lil’ boy, ” Joakim ” … he was a child, .. but man, … he ‘d talked like a real connaiseur of sport and competition … man, He was saying ” oh … in fact, I’m in love with basketball more than with tennis … etc ”

He already had AURA around his words …

He’s one of the best future competitor in Sport. ( as he shown it in NCAA ).

So … Noah doesn’t blame teamates for their ” too much money / not much contribution ” contracts … but for their ATTITUDES …

Yes it is a shame that it’s a rookie who have to show how to behave like a champion to the veterans.

Joakim knows what is Sport Ethic … don’t blame him … cos’ soon, you know that you were wrong about him you don’t have to tell him ” to shut up ” he knows when to shut up, when to p lay, when to work … but he brings in is Heart … no like many players who just bring hype no more.

I can’t wait to read another article from you Eddie …
pop Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 9:50 am

Eddie Johnson please shut up.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 9:52 am

Eddie — First, I didn’t EVER say “shut up” to you (even though that’s the motif of your article). I want you to write and voice your opinion forever about the game. I thought I took an intelligent angle and supported it well. You just always lose the argument with me — lol.

Second, the NBA is not just a business like any other. It’s different. It’s not a small business in Scottsdale (which I DID run at one point — I know how new employees SHOULD act… at the small business level). It’s sports entertainment that’s filled with personalities. It’s similar to movies and music in that respect. So, you have a big personalities like Noah, who was known years before he stepped foot on an NBA floor, whether it’s from his famous father or his NCAA championships. Either way, he’s already a name. So, yes, he can and does get away with more at the pro level.

Third, Eddie, I saw you at the bank, too. And, man, you were yelling at employees “Do you know who I am?!?!” and “I’m Eddie Johnson, b$^@h!!!” lol
BullsNut Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 9:58 am

sunsfanwhohateseddie

Well put to the above poster.

Eddie must hate the truth, and probably struggles to accept his C- stature. Eddie is the kind of guy that thinks life is all about money and power. None of those things will change the way others feel about you. Tivo that and put it on repeat.
Dan'l Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 10:01 am

Bingo…. Noah is a vastly over-hyped one-way player… he’s great at the college level because he was a piece of a TEAM. Now he’s just an average player with a lot of energy who will never average 12 pts a game.

He needs to be seen not heard
Arthur Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 10:09 am

First of all, Noah is a joke. The fact that he went in the lottery is testament to how little most GMs actually know about basketball. If you cannot dribble or shoot, you should not be a lottery pick. The evidence of that is everywhere (Stromile Swift, Tyrus Thomas to name a couple, there are dozens).

A proven winner? He was the third best player on his college team! Ha, Ha. To those who say rookie hazing should not be done…you have clearly never been part of a team. The ONLY WAY a team works is if most are willing to be subservient in some capacity to the leader. The two biggest issues with the NBA today are 1) Lack of fundamentals (19 foot jumper, bounce pass) and 2) a serious lack of work ethic amongst younger players to actually get better. This idea that Noah should do anything but learn how to shoot better than my Grandma is asinine. Shut up you spoiled little girl.
Arthur Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 10:11 am

And by the way…I feel Ben Wallace is the MOST OVERRATED PLAYER in the NBA. So dont get my point twisted…I can’t stand Ben Wallace. But unlike Noah..he is a legit NBA player (or at least was a couple of years ago).
Melvin Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 10:14 am

very irritated to him huh!!
anthony Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 10:47 am

I’m not a Bulls fan.

But if they don’t mind some goofy spoiled rookie making there team look like a circus act. why should i mind?

it highlights the teams lack of leadership, takes away from the coaches authority, and

i think most would agree that he won’t be anything more than an average player. sure he won championships in the ncaa, but it seems like he got more publicity for being a spaz than his outstanding play. what does he know about a long grueling season on a second tier team.

REMEMBER - HE NEEDS TO BACK UP WHAT HE SAYS. IS HE GONNA BE LEAD THE BULLS TO VICTORY?

further demise of the bulls if this guy is stepping into a leadership position.
bran Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 10:52 am

Eddie this guy hasnt shut up since he was born, he thinks he is king becuz his mother was a famous tennis player and his father was somehow famous to so hes above everyone else the way he thinks of it, then the two championships at florida they wouldnt have won without al or taurean green, now hes kinnng shit. this guy will never shut up, hes always going to think he is right. but truth is, he fuckin sucks. i havent seen him play good all yr, his team was right to give him an extra game, hes a an imature kid who thinks he is man enuff for anything. ben wallace was about to show him what a man is, Hopfully that will shut his ass up, thank you eddie
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:23 am

i am amazed at how mean some of you bloggers get. Sunsfan tell that bank if they don’t like me to give me my money and i will go put it somewhere else.lol

look i will explain again what i meant because some of you people can’t read and understand at the same time.

i am not comparing Noah to Ben and if some of you silly responders read my past articles i said the Bulls should not have signed Ben.

The Bulls do need a leader, i listed them as one the leaderless teams in an article about a month ago.

Noah is not the one. He can’t lead because he has no history at this level to lead and right now he is having a hard time playing on a consistent basis to lead anyone.

For those of you that have a hard time with me referring back to my past experiences, well i suggest when you go look for a job, take a blank resume and see if you get the job. what a dumb remark. lol

I like Noah, i just don’t like his yapping and for all you bloggers that disagree just watch in 4 years where he will be if he keeps yapping.

go yapp for 14 rebounds and an improved jumpshot—one blogger said the Bulls drafted him for his personality, are you kidding me?

these are the people that are trying to debate me, you are making my life too easy.

finally if you are like Sunsfan and can’t understand the method to my madness when i argue then don’t read my articles. please im begging you—go read the enquirer or something lol.

or better yet sunsfan meet me at the bank on the 28th at 10 am and we will take a straw poll about who likes me in the bank where i park my hard earned cash. i want you guys and Kim to know that i enjoy every response and unlike most blogs i read and respond.

face facts you all love me. and yes finally i played 17 years in the NBA! lol
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:28 am

stop worrying who eddie is because it is eddie.
Cornelius Turner Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:31 am

Normally I think Eddie is one of the best evaluators of goings on in the NBA there is. I mean, he is dead on 95% of the time. But on this issue, I just don’t know how much of this is accurate. Noah is used to winning and sharing. Of all people, how can Noah respect a player (Ben Wallace) who couldn’t follow simple team rules, who quit on his coach, who has refused to enter games (see Detroit years), and who has fought with the last 4 coaches (Larry Brown, Rick Carlisle, Flip Saunders, and Scott Skiles) in some form or fashion? Not to mention, the flap happened after Ben was laughing on the bench while the Bulls were getting blown out. So I actually applaud Noah stepping up and trying to be a leader. Ben Wallace has never been nor will he ever be a leader in any locker room. Of all people to respect, his track record screams that has not respected authority himself. Championship or not!
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:49 am

Breiz

Here is the problem with your example and it is a big one. We are not talking about Magic Johnson, LeBron James or Isiah Thomas. We are talking about a player who only takes shots in the paint but shoots 45 percent.

You earn the right to lead and he has not earned that right. I will say this though, if he wants to lead he is going about it the wrong way.

this is what he should do and if i see him on Sunday (27TH) when i call the game between the Suns and Bulls i will tell him this.

lead by being the first one at practice and the last to leave

lead by asking veterans like Ben Gordon to shoot with you so you can get better.

lead by asking questions and listening hard.

lead by working hard every second you are on the floor(which he does)

only then will they respect your opinion and outbursts. —— until then

SHUT-UP
Rashidi Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:51 am

“Noah is not the one. He can’t lead because he has no history at this level to lead and right now he is having a hard time playing on a consistent basis to lead anyone.”

So I guess Magic Johnson wasn’t leading his team as a rookie? Or Chris Paul, Kevin Durant, Michael Jordan, etc.

Noah’s playing time has a lot more to do with Ben Wallace’s salary than it does Noah’s effectiveness on the court.

But then again, aren’t most lockerroom leaders the guys that don’t even step on the court too often?

There are guys like Malik Rose, who will take players under his wing. And then there are guys like Clifford Robinson who are 17 year vets and getting suspended for playoff games due to marijuana use.

Tenure has little to do with leadership, that’s an innate personality trait. Noah is an expressive guy and expects more from his teammates. That will likely never change. Just like J.R. Rider was a problem his entire career, Dennis Rodman was a weirdo, Bill Laimbeer was a con artist, Stephon Marbury self-centered, etc.

Occasionally you’ll have an immature guy like Lamar Odom put it together but for the most part the brain you walk in with is the brain you walk out with.
Jimmious Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 12:07 pm

I don’t even care about Noah, I’m just happy to see Eddie blogging!
One of my favorite players of all time!
Dimitris from Greece, Olympiakos fan!
GO EDDIE!!!
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 12:07 pm

Rashidi

All due respect, but did you just compare Noah to Magic, Chris Paul and Air? please tell me you did not?

I am going to be nice because i think you might be drinking lol.

THOSE PLAYERS PLAYED BIG MINUTES AND WERE THE REASON THEIR TEAMS WERE SUCCESSFUL!

They took leadership right away because they were and are great players.

We are talking about Joakim Noah, a 45 percent shooter who gets 99 percent of his shots in the paint.

he is having a hard time leading himself.

WAKE -UP! You really make me laugh! By the way Rodman and Laimbeer were excellent leaders!

Rodman bust his butt every night and Laimbeer did the same.
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 12:17 pm

Michael Bennett

I forgot to tell you to write Steve Nash and tell him rookie hazing is over because i saw the Suns Rookies dancing and singing school fight songs in a crowded restaurant during training camp———-what would you guys do if you didnt have ej for the inside scoop.

oh and yea for the ones who hate me to say this——-i played 17 years lol.
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 12:21 pm

Rashidi

yes, some leaders are the ones that don’t step on the floor and none of them are rookies sir! you are so easy–why do you leave yourself open so much man?

You just validated my article in reverse—thank you lol
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 12:26 pm

hahaha proof Eddie from Michael Bennett

“Do you know who I am?!?!” and “I’m Eddie Johnson, b$^@h!!!”

Well I would actually take you up on that offer to meet you at the bank to pull straws on the 28th. Let’s see how many tellers and managers care about how much money you have in the bank? You think they have a vested interest in your servces??? Yes, the bank does and some bankers, but the rest of the workers…they hate your guts. That’s a fact.

Anyways, I finally agree with one of your arguments of how to lead, by leading by example…totally agree. But he got in the face of a vet who wasn’t playing with any passion whatsoever. Proof? Check when was the last time Wallace had a big rebounding game. Last I checked Noah is all passion and plays a 100% all the time. Does that not warrant him from asking more effort from his team? There is nothing wrong with that. If he was late to meetings, wanted more shots, or complained about the coaching, I would say yes he should shut up. I also condemn a rookie getting in the face of a coach, but if it was vented frustration about the teams fire, then I would say that’s an exemption for the better good of the team…especially a 15-22 team. Why should rookies just shut up?

I’ll make a bet with you Noah is in the league somewhere 4 years from now. I bet you said the same thing about Tyson Chandler. Face it, big men in this league is a commodity, especially if you are a 7′0 mobile big man that can defend and rebound. Not indicating he will be a superstar but he’ll have a job as long as he sticks to what got him success in college, defense and rebounding. The Suns could use a guy like him, especially if it could light some fire under his french buddy diaw.

I think in Noah’s case he’s probably one of those misunderstood guys who you think is arrogant but, in reality the guy is just an ultra competitive person, as evidenced by Al Horfords comments on the situation.
jay Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 12:39 pm

i’ve known joakim for maybe 7 years now. i wouldn’t say im good friends with him who knows if he remembers me or not. but we played a lot of basketball together while i was in high school.. im 22 now. knowing joakim he just wants to win. he has that attitude that is always intense because he hates to be wrong or lose. he was always screaming as forms of motivation, it especially helped out our team. he may be looked at differently because he is more mad at himself but the players may be taking it differently . another thing is, knowing him for a while, i was shocked to even heard he was going to florida, then MOP, then 9th pick in the NBA; he’s not that good at all. but he’s just that person who helps out the team in an emotional way. wallace probably told him to shut up and joakim took it the wrong way.
Eddie Sharpe Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 12:48 pm

If people would just focus on the things said as opposed to whom it is coming from or that individual’s status, our plight (the Bulls Team) might begin to make its self clear.

The things that Joakim said were in essence, leadership (laughing on the bench while getting blown out), working hard (hustling on all plays giving full effort at all times). Those are things that have to be said to a struggling team, family, or community…the fact that it came from a rookie say’s more about who’s not leading than it does about who’s speaking out of turn.

The content of words is more important than the author. People who focus on the who instead of the What are agents of destruction and must be eliminated.

Even the Bible say’s…” A little child shall lead them”. I guess the people who are opposed to being lead by a child will refuse to be lead huh?
Liogiery Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 1:09 pm

Eddie, ilt’s not the subject, but you cant devaluate Noah offensive capicity.
He’s the 1st rookie (who play more than 10min) in 48min. efficiency in front of S. Williams and L. Scola.

You can also compare 2 friends: Noah and Horford (top3 rookie) 48minutes stats.

Noah - 16.5pts - 15.3rbs - 3.4ast - 3.0stl - 2.3blk - 2.6to - 45%
Horford - 13.7pts - 15.0rbs - 1.9ast - 1.4stl - 1.7blk - 2.9to - 48%

And no-one speak about Horford qualities. Horford have opportunities, Noah, not…
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 1:12 pm

SUNSFAN

Meet me up there scary cat lol
Salva Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 1:59 pm

I’m embarrassed and disappointed !

This aggressiveness makes me sick…seems that writing down his opinion without mentionning some personal issues with Eddie has become a huge problem for many of you bloggers.

PEACE.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 2:07 pm

awww I guess eddie’s butt hurt now. And i believe the expression you’re looking for is scaredy cat. Nothing on basketball anymore??? I think the majority of the people on here have disagreed with your assessment already but, I guess we’re all mortals and know nothing because we didn’t play in the NBA for 17 seasons. Yup we’re all idiots. We should just conform to what people say and women should not show skin.
harold nations Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 3:09 pm

Ben Wallace should be delivering newspapers and donuts to Noah! Wallace couldn’t lead a parade of dog catchers. What we have here are veterans being upstaged by a smarter, more energetic, and more talented rookie and of course they don’t like it. Doesn’t mean Noah is wrong, just that he doesn’t like typical nba BS.
George Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 3:17 pm

I like the company analogy. If I got a new employee who graduated from Harvard cum laude and I paid top dollars to get his as in my company and my sales are tanking… and everything my “seasoned” senior people are doing does not produce any results… I’d say the rookie is on the fast lane to a promotion. And his Harvard degree does mean a lot. It means he is most likely better than 99.99% of his peers and a winner that will take me places.

Mind you, if I have a manager who comes to me asking to discipline one of his workers for jumping the chain of command instead of standing up as a leader and putting the worker in his place, I’d probably first demote the manager, second I’ll discipline the rookie for breaking the rules and finally if the rookie was right in what he said I’d make him the manager and give him the opportunity to shine.

When you lose and you mostly concern yourself with who the rookie is then you do not have a commitment to winning but a commitment to playing out your own insecurities and to covering your inability to fix it. And if there were true leaders there they should’ve smacked the rookie on the nouth to put him in his place and then gotten out there and grabbed 20 boards, blocked 5 shots, stole 3 balls, and scored 15 points en route to winning the game. But instead they complained to their friends and to mommy and did not allow the new kid to play with them in the next game they lost.

So, don’t even get me started on Ben Wallace. He got lucky in Detroit with all that talent around him. He was a bum before and he is a bum now, albeit 60mill dollars richer bum.
Mavs4ever Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 3:56 pm

I think there are two sides we must look into, the player side, which EJ belongs and the fan side which is us. Well, as a player, considering if your working your ass for 10 years in this business and a newly hired employee tells you straight in your face that your not doing your job well, i would have smack him instantly. But on the fan/ consumer side, it’s quite easy to tell your not performing well based on what i see on the court presently and i dont care if you’ve done good on those previous years (employee of the month, MVP etc.) , but since the customer is always right, you just shut your mouth.
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:06 pm

Liogiery

that 48 minute stat is a bogus projection. if i had m played 48 minutes a game at my point production. i would have led the league in scoring for a decade.

it means nothing. its good for stat hounds.
Carlito's Way Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:07 pm

Sunsfanwhohateseddie sorry to break it to you but your friend hates his/her job and hates customers in general. Hey it happens. I work in the customer service as well and you know what I don’t like customers either. I’ll talk smack about them and cuss them out in my mind all day. Does that mean that I know my customers? Does it mean that they are bad people because I can’t stand them? I do what I do because I’m comfortable in my job and had to work from the bottom of seniority and earned my way up. So what?

Eddie, I agree with what you’re saying. You should worry about yourself and not others.
MATT Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:08 pm

PORTLAND TRADES
G-J.JACK,D.MILES,C.FRYE, 08 PICK
FOR S.MARION- NOAH GETS TRADED TO ORLANDO FOR
JJ REDICK,&BCOOK
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:10 pm

sunsfanwhohateseddie

really the only dunce on here is you for going the personal route. i think you are a silly sad individual and now you will be ignored because you have no substance to your life if you are casting blind personal jargon. so disappear my friend and if you mention another personal attack other than relating to the article you will be banned!
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:14 pm

harold nations

you had my attention till you said more talented.
joey Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:17 pm

I agree. Noah should shut up. its just the way things are… whaTEVER the excuse does not overcome the fact that he is a rookie.
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:20 pm

George

why are you guys mentioning Ben Wallace? i dont agree with Wallace, but i really dont agree with Noah. If Ben Gordon, Kirk Heinrich or Luol Deng said something to him—-no problem.

or better yet if Noah was Lebron in his first year, than fine—–but we are talking about a player that has not played and quite frankly will not make a impact in this league untill he can improve his offensive skill set. So until then SHUT -UP– because wallace will not respect you.
Salva Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:21 pm

Eddie,

Possible to get an autograph ?
Kingsblade Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:30 pm

Noah’s biggest problem is his sense of entitlement. I can’t decide if his problem comes from his somewhat privileged upbringing or his status as big man on campus at Florida, but it is becoming more of a widespread issue with some of these kids coming up lately.

People here bring up names like Magic, and Jordan, but what they fail to mention is that those guys did exactly what Eddie is suggesting. Sure they were leaders on their team, but they put their heads down and led by example and talent. They did not start talking until they had proven they had a right to do so.

Do you people really think that Jordan was mouthing off telling teammates what to do before he had even demonstrated that he was ready to lead? Do you really think Jordan wasn’t getting coffee and donuts? Of course he was. You’re crazy if you don’t think that guys like Orlando Woolridge made rookie life very hard on Jordan.

All of those great players and leaders that people keep talking about came into the league intent on working hard and proving they belonged. Noah has come into the league assuming some sort of mantle of privilege and leadership that just does not exist at this level for him.
Peterrr Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:44 pm

I agree with Eddie Johnson on this. Noah is a rookie and he should respect the veterans. What Noah shouldn’t do is start talking to the press in public. leave all that stuff in-doors without embarrassing himself and his team. Prove yourself before you start talking Noah. Like Eddie said “be the first to come and last to leave”. Prove by examples not by words. I can sit on the bench or couch and start complaining and whining about how bad they are. Its easy to talk with his mouth But it takes REAL HEART to do that on the court.

Very good post by the way Eddie. Thx
Peterrr Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 4:50 pm

Kingsblade, Great Post, couldn’t have said it better.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 5:24 pm

Wah, wah, wah…and “all you wanna be nba players” is not a personal attack on us?

Why are we mentioning Wallace??? Here’s why

“because Wallace has paid his dues and has a championship to boot”.

You’re in essence saying that Noah has no right to explain his side of the situation, because basically he hasn’t paid his dues? He’s not asking for the ball more, he’s not complaining about skills, nor is he complaining about execution??? He was venting his frustrations on the teams lack of effort and their attitude when they lost (hence wallace laughing on the bench during a loss). What the hell is wrong with that Eddie?? Answer that, you have yet to do so, ironically instead you personally attack Noah’s game. We all agree his game needs work, he never acted like a superstar, instead he’s acting like a teammate who cares! I don’t get it.
John Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 5:30 pm

I don’t think I agree with this statement, Eddie. I know you won a championship or two with the Houston Rockets, but the matter of the fact is, while you don’t want rookies to speak their minds, it is important to know what they are trying to say, as long as it’s not about playing time. Coaches need to be flexible in their philosophies and playing styles, so that they know how best to use their players. In addition, the Bulls do suck, and somebody has to step up and do something about it. Maybe, Deng has to step up and speak his mind like a Dwyane Wade. Also, Noah has won two championships before stepping foot into the NBA, despite not having great post skills or an outside jumper. He has great knowledge of the game, and knows how to be and find open spots, is a good passer, and is a very good defender. Noah just wants to win, and he is passionate about his team. He didn’t do it in the right context, but we all know the Bulls are greatly underachieving. Is it the coaching staff, the players, maybe the management? It’s everybody. Noah is one voice of opinion.
Maybe Heinrich should stop chucking, Gordon should take better shots, and learn to finish around the rim better. Maybe Tyrus Thomas needs to play more consistently, with more passion, and play like the top 5 pick we all thought he would be. Maybe Ben Wallace would re-energize his passion and play like his old days in Detroit. Maybe Sefolosha needs to play more, and guard the crap out of people while making 3s. But fans aren’t to be listened, they are to be seen and not heard. Get the irony?
KevinConnor Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 5:34 pm

We all owe you an apology Eddy. We obviuosly all forgot you´re God´s gift to basketball. And because of that you´re the only one entitled to an opinion. None of us here has a right to an opinion(except of course when we are agreeing with you Dr. Basketball) and Noah as a rookie certainly doesn´t have the right to speak his mind.

“that 48 minute stat is a bogus projection. if i had m played 48 minutes a game at my point production. i would have led the league in scoring for a decade.”

You´re killing me with bs like this. Man you´re so full of yourself.
Chris Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 5:37 pm

I don’t know, but what I do know is…Noah and Ben Wallace should like each other, because they are both energetic, hustle players, they both want to win, just like Irvin, Keyshawn, and TO should all get all along because they are all trash-talking entertaining receivers who pioneered this art of the game! So all of you should shut up, and let the media do the talking. So none of this rookie gets no vote of confidence crap or anything. Team unity, not team division! So maybe it may be Noah’s fault for speaking his mind and having a worthless opinion or too. But maybe the Bulls should do a better job of preventing stuff like this from leaking out to the press, giving us a chance to rip on the worthless Bulls who in all reality will not make the playoffs.
John Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 5:49 pm

So maybe a rookie’s voice is really controversial. Is it really? It should be heard, as long as it’s not about playing time. Leave that up to the coaching staff. But as far as the team’s going, it is theirs, the players, the management’s, and everyone’s fault as far as why the Bulls are underachieving.
Noah is more advanced than a usual rookie. He is far more passionate, more energetic, and more enthused. He also won two championships prior to the NBA, and is an intelligent mind of basketball. He has gone this far without post skills, an outside jumper, because he knows how to be and find open spots, due to his incredible vision, passing skills, and is a very good defender. There are some players in this league who still don’t know how to play, but keep getting contracts, like Troy Hudson, and Earl Barron.
But I digress. Maybe Heinrich should stop chucking so much and taking so many contested jumpers, Gordon should take smarter shots, and maybe Tyrus Thomas should play more consistently and be the top 5 pick/dominant force/all-star we all hoped he’d develop into. Maybe Ben Wallace should be re-energized and play with more passion and play like he did in Detroit. The fact is the Bulls do suck and are greatly underachieving, so somebody, maybe Deng has to speak his voice like a champion, like Dwyane Wade did to get his team going (or not). But fans are seen and not heard. Get the irony?
Also, Noah and Ben Wallace should like each other, because they are both energetic, hustle players, they both want to win, just like Irvin, Keyshawn, and TO should all get all along because they are all trash-talking entertaining receivers who pioneered this art of the game! So all of you should shut up, and let the media do the talking. So none of this rookie gets no vote of confidence crap or anything. Team unity, not team division! So maybe it may be Noah’s fault for speaking his mind and having a worthless opinion or too. But maybe the Bulls should do a better job of preventing stuff like this from leaking out to the press, giving us a chance to rip on the worthless Bulls who in all reality will not make the playoffs. You know, if somebody stepped on Noah’s side for a change, we wouldn’t be hearing this ridiculous stuff over the news and Noah wouldn’t be seen as a “rebel”.
John Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 5:50 pm

So maybe a rookie’s voice is really controversial. Is it really? It should be heard, as long as it’s not about playing time. Leave that up to the coaching staff. But as far as the team’s going, it is theirs, the players, the management’s, and everyone’s fault as far as why the Bulls are underachieving.
Eddie, I know you won a championship or two, so your knowledge is valuable. But Noah is more advanced than a usual rookie. He is far more passionate, more energetic, and more enthused. He also won two championships prior to the NBA, and is an intelligent mind of basketball. He has gone this far without post skills, an outside jumper, because he knows how to be and find open spots, due to his incredible vision, passing skills, and is a very good defender. There are some players in this league who still don’t know how to play, but keep getting contracts, like Troy Hudson, and Earl Barron.
But I digress. Maybe Heinrich should stop chucking so much and taking so many contested jumpers, Gordon should take smarter shots, and maybe Tyrus Thomas should play more consistently and be the top 5 pick/dominant force/all-star we all hoped he’d develop into. Maybe Ben Wallace should be re-energized and play with more passion and play like he did in Detroit. The fact is the Bulls do suck and are greatly underachieving, so somebody, maybe Deng has to speak his voice like a champion, like Dwyane Wade did to get his team going (or not). But fans are seen and not heard. Get the irony?
Also, Noah and Ben Wallace should like each other, because they are both energetic, hustle players, they both want to win, just like Irvin, Keyshawn, and TO should all get all along because they are all trash-talking entertaining receivers who pioneered this art of the game! So all of you should shut up, and let the media do the talking. So none of this rookie gets no vote of confidence crap or anything. Team unity, not team division! So maybe it may be Noah’s fault for speaking his mind and having a worthless opinion or too. But maybe the Bulls should do a better job of preventing stuff like this from leaking out to the press, giving us a chance to rip on the worthless Bulls who in all reality will not make the playoffs. You know, if somebody stepped on Noah’s side for a change, we wouldn’t be hearing this ridiculous stuff over the news and Noah wouldn’t be seen as a “rebel”.
yoda Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 5:52 pm

eddie, you said that rookie has to respect vet’s and i agree with you. but, can you honestly say, who he should respect on this bulls? why would he respect lazy, overpaid player, who dont care does he win or loose. you keep saying: “old days”. do you remeber any of top dogs of your time (atleast best paid players) who acted like ben is acting now? every player worked hard in your days and every player cared does he win or loose. so, rookies had someone to look up to. now, you have team that dont really cares do they win or not, they have overpaid player who won chip and he got big bucks, you got players that shoots for contract and then you have kid who is used to wining and who cares about his team. you mentioned mj, birdman, magic few times. what do you think, who would they rather have in they team? ben as he is like now, overpaid lazy player with no offensive skills ( ofc, they wouldnt let him be like that), or passionate kid who wants to win, even tho hes bit of wierdo? ofc, noah shouldnt go off on coach and he shouldnt talked too much, but give him some slack. hes one of few there who cares about wining and and cares about team. and in team lethargic like this, and the way he plays hard every minute hes on floor, he has every right to call out everyone there. you said best: what did you do for me lately? ben has done nothing, noah atleast tries to do something.
i really like your posts, but this time, you were too harsh.
p.s. you do really like “lol” alot. is that how you “oldies” feel young again?
Chris Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 5:56 pm

Eddie, I support your statement! You’ve won titles in the NBA for the Rockets, not just college titles from the NCAA, so your knowledge is far greater than the rookies. Could Noah be an assistant coach right now? No. I think I would consider hiring Gordon or Heinrich to be one instead of Noah. I mean, I think Isaiah would make a better coach than Noah! And what’s with the so-called passing skills, finding open spaces, cutting to the hoop, that’s not essential! A big man is supposed to bash it in the post, bulk up to 250, and score with his back to the basket. I know that’s what my man Hakeem did, so let’s hire some real veterans to teach him, and let him know that the bench is for his place to be! None of this rookie starting crap, even if he may be better. That goes for you Lebron, and ‘Melo too. Also, players in general should not back talk, and not start stuff in the media, unless he can be funny like Barkley or political like Ali. This is just utter ridiculousness and stupidity, and I can’t even believe that the Bulls organization lets this stuff leak out into a press release.
Chris Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 6:04 pm

Hmm, I just looked at some ESPN stats, but Ben Wallace is shooting 33.7% from the field, and Duhon, Tyrus Thomas, and Kirk Heinrich are shooting below 40% from the field, worse than Noah! And Noah has almost as many blocks and steals as Ty Thomas, in 6 less minutes, and a better assist to turnover ratio than Gordon? What’s up with these Bulls?
But even though Noah is shooting better than Thomas, Heinrich, and Duhon, he’s a big guy, and doesn’t play lots of minutes, so shoot better, and know your place is on the bench! Haha! Stick it to him, Eddie!
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 6:20 pm

“You´re killing me with bs like this. Man you´re so full of yourself.”
Well put KevinConnor, must be a little humbling for Eddie.

“WAKE -UP! You really make me laugh! By the way Rodman and Laimbeer were excellent leaders!”

“Rodman bust his butt every night and Laimbeer did the same.”

Hmmm, doesn’t Noah play a 100% every night?? You are contradicting yourself. Rodman had no offensive game but, played great D and rebounded exceptionally. I’m not saying Noah is at that level but you’re implying that he will never be a leader without an offensive game.
williami Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 6:32 pm

Eddie, I always enjoy your blogs, however I don’t know how this one can end well.
I understand your point that rookies have to pay their dues, respect the elders etc, I guess some of the readers do too. However I think you’re committing the same mistake that Noah did, in so resulting in a turnover in both your cases. I think the problem is not in the message at all. I think both Noah and you have a legit premise to begin with, but the medium and choice of words are probably not the most correct one.

Anyway I don’t sympathize with sunsfan trying to bait you out, however your responses might turn some people off as well.
I hope this turn of event doesn’t stress you out and you keep posting your “17 years” insights that I will keep on clicking to read

======
“Rookies can speak up,” Jarvis Hayes said. “But they have to know how and when to do it. You can’t say anything you want as a rookie. You have to play a little bit before you can jump up in somebody’s face.”
Vomitgod Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 6:39 pm

Hey Eddie…

It must make you feel like a real man to insult the intelligence of the bloggers when they don’t agree with you….especially when you can’t punctuate a sentence correctly to save your life….or capitalize an “i”…..or find something better to add than a “lol”. I guess that’s why you played basketball instead of becoming a writer, eh?

I’m not trying to be mean, but DAMN….talk about the pot and the kettle!

You were a player……IN A DIFFERENT ERA. You’re like those creepy college guys who hang around high schoolers and think they know everything.

You don’t even know what was said between Noah and anyone. Maybe you should SHUT-UP until you do.
DME Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 7:02 pm

Mr. Paxson should keep Tyrus Thomas, Joakim Noah and most significantly Loul Deng, finally trade all the other highly intangible players for 1st round draft picks if the opportunity is visible

*he should of got strawberry last year instead of the slow big man gray
Kingsblade Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 7:03 pm

Maybe vomitgod should correct his own grammar before commenting on the grammar of others.
Luis Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 7:11 pm

What up sunsfanswhohateseddiebecausemylifedependsonhim. I stop reading your hate mail right here, “My friend works at the Wells Fargo bank…and says.” I tell you what, your friend hates his/her job and does not like customers in general. It is apparent that your already established hatred towards EJ was only fueled by your friend’s comments. Very stupid if you ask me. Hey it happens. I work in customer services myself and customers (in general not all) make me sick and I tend to discuss customers with my coworkers as well and so what? Does it make me right? I deal with 200-300 calls a day and talk to the same people a lot but it doesn’t mean that I know them. EJ’s job is basically to call out a game and share his knowledge and that is it. Bottom line: take your meds, get a life and don’t take things too seriously. Peace out!
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 7:20 pm

“this is a league of what have you done for me lately not what you did before.”

Wait a minute didn’t you say

“because Wallace has paid his dues and has a championship to boot”

what do i smell…..a hypocrite???
Luis Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 7:26 pm

Way to take things out of context there buddy. Keep trying to make yourself look foolish.
Luis Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 7:30 pm

Stay to the subject at hand: NOAH.
If what everybody else is saying about Ben is true then shame on him but where talking about NOAH. We’re talking about sports not human rights.
Luis Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 7:31 pm

They need to add an ‘edit’ button. It’s “we’re” and not “where talking about NOAH.”
Paul Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 7:42 pm

Eddie, I said PART of the reason the Bulls drafted Naoh was because of his personality. Ben Wallace has no business getting on Noah’s case. Joakim wants to win, and any team should do whatever it takes to win. The Bulls current model sure as hell isn’t working.

Of ALL articles you could have written about the Bulls, you chose to write about a rookie who never shuts up because he wants to win? Great to see you really explored options…..

Nevermind the fact that the Bulls “franchise center” is an overpaid piece of crap who could care less if the Bulls win or lose. The same guy who bitched about not being about to wear his headband last year because Scott Skiles said he couldn’t.

Forget the fact that Bulls refuse to trade for a big man WHO CAN SCORE and are set to overpay Luol Deng and Ben Gordon in a few months. Also, forget about the fact that their GM (John Paxson) is an idiot who couldn’t run a college team.

I used to respect you Eddie, but not anymore. If you have an issue with Joakim, go see him and be the man you claim to be. He’d flatten your fat ass out. Instead of writing a blog attacking a player you couldn’t couldn’t hold a candle to, write an INSIGHTFUL piece and perhaps, go see a therapist with your anger issues. Us readers aren’t here to listen to your problems, we’re here to read something called a GOOD PIECE OF LITERATURE!
Stacey Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 7:52 pm

Much respect due to Eddie, who I presume is the jump-shooting 80s forward and not the freebasing 80s point guard…. but his blanket statement is a bad way to look at the situation.

Maybe Noah should shut up… or maybe Wallace should work a little harder on his declining $15 million a year game before he decides to initiate rookies.

Reverse the situation… what would Coach Eddie Johnson do if he looked to his bench and saw a rook like Noah laughing during a blowout ?

Unless you’re sending Noah AND Wallace back for a shower in that situation, you have a consistency quandry. Once that happens, discipline goes out the window.

Had Chicago’s coach sent Wallace to the showers for laughing during a blowout, it eliminates a problem that instead had to be addressed by a rookie. Instead…. well, here we are.
clipperfan Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 8:11 pm

Eddie,

I agree with you that Noah should concentrate on improving his game. He has no reason to consider himself a leader on the Bulls. His experience in college and being the son of Yannick Noah seems to have given him a sense of entitlement. At the NBA level that does not mean anything. I feel embarassed that some of these commenters are personally attacking you. That’s not right. I enjoy reading your articles. Keep up the good work.
BRockin25 Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 8:52 pm

sunsfanwhohateseddie…Noah HAS BEEN late to meetings, practices, etc. How do you think he got suspended beyond 1 day? Not only for berating his coach after HE was jacking up plays in the walkthrough, but because of the other incidents. No way can a guy that cant even show up to practice on time should call out a former MVP Candidate and NBA champion. You think Wallace doesnt know how to lead, work hard, and win? You think he doesnt know how to set a good example? Hes had issues, but the great reputation many of you claim he “coasts” on? How do you think he got that reputation?

Lets face facts. Noah is trying to undermine his teammates and coaches and claim the same spotlight he had in Florida. Well now he has it, for the wrong reasons. He will learn and improve though, and may reclaim it for the right reasons down the road.

Im not even one to agree with all of Eddies articles but I dont see what the problem is here. He hit the nail on the head.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 9:17 pm

BRockin25, I admit I was wrong, it was reported that he was late to practices and you are right that he apparently hasn’t learned the plays yet but, my point is that the guy plays as it’s game 7 of the nba finals every night and has questioned the effort of his teammates. He got in the face of a vet who has been under performing and had been seen laughing on the bench during a loss (mind you a 20 point blowout). How professional is that??? I would be pissed off if a teammate was doing that while I was busting my butt on the court.

Now former MVP candidate??? What universe was that in?? Let’s not exaggerate the guys accomplishments now. Yes I’m questioning his desire in games, go ahead and check his game stats. What was the last game he made a huge impact?? Do you have NBA League Pass? Go watch him and the rest of the bulls efforts, it’s pathetic. In fact, read all the bulls fan’s entries before me. I find Noah getting in the face of an underachieving vet refreshing. Don’t get me wrong now, if he goes and starts demanding the ball or telling his teammates they don’t know how to win, that’s another story. But being pissed at the teams effort and desire to win when they are clearly underachieving is a whole another story.

As far as Ben’s reputation, I believe he got it by selling out on the court, being an underpaid humble undrafted player, and being a professional. I believe he is the complete opposite now. It’ll be interesting to see how and why you think otherwise. He’s been nothing but trouble since he’s gained a little notoriety around the league.
Gary Harper Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 10:57 pm

Amen, Eddie Johnson! And that’s all I got to say about that! A-MEN!

Noah was annoying at Florida and will be in the pros. He may be a decent pro (someday, but he sure isn’t now), but he obviously has a long way to go. Noah needs to know that you need to win SOMETHING at this level, then maybe you can run your mouth a little. He hasn’t even won a playoff game — and with Deng out for a while, and Wallace struggling, Noah still has amounted to nothing more than a role player. In this league, role players (especially ROOKIE role players) just shut up.

Just a case of a guy (and all his fans) thinking he’s a lot better than he really is.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:00 pm

Eddie — You’ve managed to create THE most volatile blog yet. And to think we used to scrap about who’s better, LeBron or Kobe… We should have been talkin’ Bulls basketball from day one.

PS — Who’s better right now? Ah, thank you very much.
Max Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:05 pm

Hmmm…you readers are all over the place with this one.

The article made is points and there’s backup. Stick to the facts of what’s so.
MATT Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:28 pm

i hear memphis wants, gordon,nocioni&gray, for pau gasol

and phoenix may deal amare stoudemire for yao ming straight up
houston gets a change, and phoenixs get a 7″6 yao, finally with a pointguard, and another post that can get 10rebounds with him

eddie the asians are coming the asians are coming
Kingsblade Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:28 pm

@sunsfanwhohateseddie

In 03-04 Wallace was #7 in mvp voting, 02-03 #8, and in 01-02 #10. So while he might not have been all that close to winning it he would have to have been considered a candidate for those 3 years.

The thing I find “refreshing” about Noah is the fact that he is basically an ass with a sense of entitlement who has a near breakdown when things don’t go his way. Wait…did I say refreshing? I meant irritating.

Is Wallace right to be slacking like he is? Of course not. Is Noah the one to tell him? Shouldn’t a brat like that who can’t even learn the system be concentrating on his own game instead? It falls under the category of those living in glass houses casting stones. Sure effort isn’t Noah’s problems, but he has too many of his own to be pointing fingers.

@Paul

I just want to make sure I have this right….you are coming to this site to look for literature? Try your local library. You might have better luck there.

Eddie is here to express his opinions, which he does clearly and expressively. I don’t really know what it is you are looking for but if you need it I can recommend a few books.
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:33 pm

KevinConnor

look it up and run the numbers if you dare.
MATT Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:36 pm

and watch out for portland
they will draft either dj augustin,mario austin, or tyler hansbrough with their pick, and get greg oden, watch out

phoenix
g-nash barbosa
gv.carterg-bell
f-hill f-diaw
f-diaw f-k-love
c-yao
and with atls pick phoenix get-kevin lowe
then trade marion for vince carter

make it happen cappin, and marion , would love nj
and have kidd to throw him oops instead of nash
and would be a 1b option on a playoff team, in the easier east
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:37 pm

Vomitgod

i found at least 5 mistakes in your blog. so where does that rate you. i could care less about my writing when i am answering questions. i don’t have that much time for you. Just respond to the blog or go vomit.
MATT Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:39 pm

vince and yao, on the same team, with nash throwing all kind of dimes, and barbosa off the bench, and ghill still doing good, and diaw getting more minutes,at 4 with 76yao in middle

are is that too many moves, im just being crearive,
but im sorry that team i just assembled could beat the spurs
100%
Eddie Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:42 pm

Paul

man hear me and hear me loud. i could care less rather you respect me or not sir—–state your case and wait for my response—thats what you can do.

i am not worried about Joakim Noah being mad at me either and definitely not worried about a confrontation. i believe he will shut up and take my advice.
craig beckerman Said,

January 18, 2008 @ 11:45 pm

the funniest and saddest part is eddie keeps talking about his 17 year nba career yet the fact is i really dont even know if he could make the nba today crtanitly he wouldnt be a starter he could shoot let me repeat that he could shoot his one ability could eddie pass even for a 3 NO was he a great rebounder for his position NO he could shoot THATS IT how many 1 dimensional players no longer get drafted or make it to the league so eddie could SHOOT that is all thats why he had a 17 year nba career so go brag about something else please if you were under 6-5 you never would have been in the league FACT IS FACT
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:00 am

kingsblade and Michael Bennett

These guys think i have anger issues. lol——–

Guys listen i did exactly what i intended on doing and that is create a battle over my article.

get real—–Not one blogger has ever made me mad on this blog.

Words can never hurt me and neither can perceptions of my articles.
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:06 am

craig beckerman

why thank you—lol
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:08 am

craig beckerman

i wonder if you could say the same thing about Babe Ruth—lol
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:28 am

Kingsblade, okay we have different interpretations of what a MVP candidate is. Technically you are correct but, seriously he was not a serious contender.

“The thing I find “refreshing” about Noah is the fact that he is basically an ass with a sense of entitlement who has a near breakdown when things don’t go his way. Wait…did I say refreshing? I meant irritating.”

He got ripped in practice for messing up and overreacted. Yes, that was wrong.

He was late to practices, yes that was wrong.

But, expecting everyone on the team to care about something simple like say…winning and playing hard?

So how do you know he’s a brat with a sense of entitlement? I’m judging by the facts here and saying that someone, anyone should question their teams pathetic effort and back it up. I believe Noah is doing that in terms of effort. I’m not personal opinions clouds my view on this situation. If you ask me, Noah comes off arrogant. But, judging from comments of former teammates, billy donovan, and UF fans, the guy is just a little misunderstood.

C’mon I think anyone on the team who’s earning some minutes should deserve to speak out. If not him, somebody needs to. They clearly lack effort and any heart.

“Shouldn’t a brat like that who can’t even learn the system be concentrating on his own game instead? ”

That’s exactly what’s wrong with the Bulls don’t you think? Everyone worrying about themselves instead of worrying about winning games?
trevor Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:42 am

lol eddie your the best, I always look on this site for your articles. They are refreshing and insightful comments. I give you lots of credit for doing so, and putting up with all of the idiots who attempt to tear you down. keep on keepin on. I’m listening. it is too bad about the bulls not caring, but for a rookie, he should earn his respect by learning to play better and better. 17 years, that’s as good as gold in my books.
erin Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:57 am

LOL, looks to me like Eddie doesn’t want to respond to sunsfanwhohateseddie anymore.
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 1:17 am

trevor

thank you. Its all about fun!
GN2 Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 2:31 am

People simply do not get it. The funny part is that Noah undoubtedly understood and applied these principles in college but has forgotten them now. Unless you are THE man you earn your respect by being one of the men.

By the way, even LeBron got hazed. Wade got hazed and Kobe got hazed. Frankly hazing is not the issue, it is about humbling yourself to be one of many rather than an individual on the team. It is obvious that some of you have not even played HS athletics because hazing is done their for the same reasons.

I’m typing this really slowly for some of you, the issue is not whether Ben is playing well or not. The issue is who has earned the credibility to publicly take him to task. A coach can do it, a GM can do it (might not be wise), and guys who are PLAYING and LEADING the team. Guys who DNP coaches decision have not earned the ability to take someone to task publicly.

As for Eddie or anyone else being unfriendly in their private affairs, it is in poor taste to attack someone like that in a blog, and especially one related to BBall. Then again, that is why some of you are so vehemently supporting Noah’s conduct.

I will disagree with Eddie on one thing. I think sports teams are more like the military than businesses. First of the majority of business fail after a few years (perhaps because some people think that everyone has an equal voice). In the military, there is a chain of command. Everyone knows who the General is and the other brass. The same applies to team athletic. If you are the best and or work the hardest you earn title of leader. You cannot be some guy who is not the best or working the hardest and then call out others who have earned a right to have voice.

Some guy said that one dimensional players do not make the association. Look at guys 7-12 on most teams and you will see one dimensional. There are a bunch of guys who play or ride the bench who only do one thing well. Last I knew, teams still want guys who can shoot the rock.
Rashidi Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 3:13 am

RAGED LMAO
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 3:24 am

I just don’t understant why some people are making it so personal. The reason you are all (supposedly) there is because you love sports, in general, and basketball in particular. That’s what this blog and the comments made on it should be all about. I really don’t care if eddie is a good person or not, but even when i don’t think he is right, i found his work really interesting. If you don’t like it (or him), why are you reading his blog and making comments, i just don’t get the point and i have to say that i really appreciate the fact that eddie took the time to read and answer the comments because you all know that not everyone is doing that and it’s not like he don’t have the choice; so just for that respect.
Now back to the subject, i think that all that thing show how much the bulls lack leadership and why they are actually so bad. Someone needed to confront ben wallace and the fact that no one outside of a rookie had the guts to do it speaks volumes to me about that team. I recognize that noah should not have done that but if no one else care enough for stepping up, then that was just the right thing to do whether or not he is a rookie. Maybe this will be the wake up call that this team need before everything fall apart.
( Sorry for my english, i am not used to speak or write in english)
saleem Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 5:45 am

“Tenure has little to do with leadership”

Right on Rashidi.

I’m not suggesting that Noah is or will be a leader on this team, but
to think that being a rookie means he shouldn’t express his opinion is
pathetic. The real dilemma for the Bulls is identifying a true team
leader among these players. (First year or 14th)
Stacey Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 6:23 am

Sniff…. I’m the only one Eddie didn’t get mad at…. maybe I should have let him know that I’m French.
Legend Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 6:31 am

The problem here is not if Noah should try to make the Bulls a better team by going in Ben Wallace’s face or not, but it is that he is using the media to fight his battle.
When info about chemistry problems leaks to the media, the damage is out of control, and many an NBA team have been disrupted by that.
Noah is probably right in what he says, the problem is that he shouldn’t be saying that stuff to the sportswriters, because they won’t solve the problem, they will only add more gasoline to the fire.
Yes, Noah has won NCAA titles, and Wallace has won at Detroit, but the point is that they are both acting dumb, because if the final goal is to resurrect the moribund Bulls, team chemistry is a fundamental issue, and they are both doing their best to disrupt it.
Stacey Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 6:44 am

A few notes:

- Hate him all you want, but Eddie is in here making statements and backing them up in his comments section.

- Even though I instinctively favor Noah, EJ makes good points.

- I saw Eddie play in his career. He’d have no trouble at all playing on any team today, even my 5 loss Celtics. You can always use a sharpshooter…. and the hoop is the same size as it was in 1986.

- If Miami had someone like EJ out shooting jumpers, they wouldn’t be 8-31.

- EJ’s skill set would have transferred quite well to a 6′5″ shooting guard, IMHO.

- Babe Ruth deserves an * on his stats more than Bonds does, as the Babe never swung a bat against a black/Asian/Hispanic guy.

- Must be a healthy locker room in Chicago, with the rookies b*tching to each other in French, and the overpaid albatross laughing off blowouts in a lost season.

- Methinks the interim coach will be gone soon.
Liogiery Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 7:21 am

Hi Eddie,

You cant say that 48min stats means nothing.

I think you know Hollinger’s PER stats. PER is a rating of a player’s per-minute productivity.

juste see

http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/hollinger/statistics?&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnba%2fhollinger%2fstatistics

Top 15 players are “all stars”. Lebron, Chris Paul, Stoudemire, KG, Gino, Howard Kobe, Bosh…

ans the 1st rookie, 55th is Noah (in front of Sean Williams and Luis Scola).
Legend Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 7:43 am

Liogiery, I don’t think Eddie ever questioned the chance Joakim has to become a productive player, it’s not what’s at stake here.
Eddie (and I agree with him on this) questions the way Noah is trying to improve his team. Saying “I know what it takes to win” to sportswriters will only tick your teammates who have been in the trenches a million times, and will put your coach in a difficult position.
What is wrong should “stay in the family”, not fed to the sportswriters. With time and experience Noah will understand that this is not the right way to deal with a problem, and when he’ll be a veteran I am sure he’ll help rookies not to make the same mistake.
Paul Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 8:46 am

Eddie, clearly if you didn’t care, you wouldn’t bother to respond and call all of us who you rip you “wannabe NBA players” and tell us to “shut up.” I’m sure you knew that already. You care about what we think of you. Anytime anyone rips you (with good reason) you get all defensive (too bad you couldn’t play D when you played).

Oh, and you’re probably not even Eddie Johnson. One of the posts above stated that in order for Joakim Noah to become a productive NBA player, he must develop an offensive game. I know the REAL Eddie Johnson isn’t too bright, but he can’t be so stupid as to say THAT.
Raphael Malone Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 9:00 am

I’m just glad the Bulls suck. Keep it up, Joakim.
bectond Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 9:53 am

^ What offensive game does Noah have? Enlighten me please….
I’ll say this..whenever there is a vacuum sometthing is going to fill it.
This is just like the hood, where without jobs and adult role models kids can get off the chain. Once the coach was canned, dude felt he had to step into the hole that was created. (LMAO)!

IMO this speaks more about the veterans on that team and the GM (for passing on Aldridge)than it does to Noah. If he believes that the vets are soft and they have lost their edge, he is going to run his trap.
Noah has a little Danny Ainge in him.
Liogiery Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 10:49 am

Legend:

Eddie said

”
We are talking about Joakim Noah, a 45 percent shooter who gets 99 percent of his shots in the paint.

he is having a hard time leading himself.
“
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 11:16 am

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-noah1908jan19,0,5949811.story?page=1

read it cased closed. Shut up
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 11:23 am

Paul

are you from Earth? are you human or a robot? lol

man the only reason i respond is to keep you enraged. get a grip. The only people that have ever gotten under my skin is coaches that didnt get me the damm ball in crunch time and my wife when she got mad.

hecklers only fueled me.

yes i did say that—-mister. offense and the ability to make free throws keeps you on the floor. Did you notice where Ben Wallace and Noah was at the end last night against Golden State?

i love this Paul—-trust me pal. lol
Michael Bennett Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 11:37 am

Eddie — All I have to write now is that Manu Ginobili is the better than anyone on the Suns and your head will explode — lol.

I think that, like usual, you (Eddie) picked a great article. First, there’s nothing like getting strong reactions out of fans/bloggers. Even if those reactions get personal, it’s all the more proof that you’re doing your job well.

Second, I think you specifically picked Noah and his situation now because you know his history of hard work and dedication to winning. You know that he will, at some point soon (probably this off-season), work on his jumper and learn a few low post moves. He’s that type of player — always has been. So, next year, when he comes out playing his butt off AND knockin’ down some shots, you’ll give us the ol’ “I told ya so.”

Third, as a fellow Chicagoan once yourself, you know we’re all a bunch of crazies who’ll bite on anything. Especially when we’re back to losing in all of our beloved sports. Fuel to the fire.

Lastly, LeBron is the best player in the league… BY FAR. (I just had to get that in there)
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 11:39 am

Liogiery

what makes you think his math is not biased to make those guys whom would be All Stars already be at the top of his list.

Hollinger is a math guy which is fine, but the most overhyped stat is per 48 minutes.

you have to factor in stamina, defensive attention the player would get if he stayed on floor longer etc.

example those All Stars already play 35 to 40 mins of a 48 minute game.

if Kobe played only 20 minutes per game he would score 15 to 20 at his aggression rate. it is easy to look at his number, but when you take a player that has a potential 20 point night based on 48 minutes and you argue to play him more it fails because of his agression rate ,especially when he is not comfortable playing in crunch time and having the balls to take a shot when the game is on the line.

i averaged 21 points in 28 minutes in 1988-89 and shot almost 50 percent. If i had played 48 minutes, i would not have averaged over 40 a game and shot 50 percent. Thats why it’s a fake stat.
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 11:45 am

Michael

Kobe is still the best on the planet, but Lebron is knocking on his door and it is almost open (-:
Kingsblade Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:06 pm

Eddie:

Are you saying that I think you have anger issues or are you telling me that some of these other guys do?

craig beckerman:

There is a big difference between shooting and scoring. Players that can ONLY shoot do not put up scoring numbers like Eddie did.

sunsfanwhohateseddie:

I have to believe that you are intentional misinterpreting me when you write:

“That’s exactly what’s wrong with the Bulls don’t you think? Everyone worrying about themselves instead of worrying about winning games?”

There is a huge difference between concentrating on your game and concentrating on yourself. Only the worst kind of fool would think otherwise, so either you are a fool or are pretending not to understand just to be argumentative.

Focusing on his game means things that help the team and help team chemistry, like learning the plays, learning to use an alarm clock, you know…all the things you seem to be suggesting are selfish in your reply to me.

Furthermore, how is the guy misunderstood? All the people you mentioned as supporting him all but admit that he got away with whatever he wanted in college, isn’t that more or less the definition of a brat? Simply put, he has gotten away with doing exactly what he wants to do his whole life, and now that he can’t he is throwing tantrums. I have a 2 year old daughter who is less tantrum prone than Noah.

I do agree with you on the Ben Wallace for mvp business. He certainly was never really all that close to winning (which I mentioned in the post) but I wrote that because it does provide justification for people saying he was a candidate, even if he was never actually going to win it.
weaponjay Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:09 pm

The “ROOKIE” was already suspended by his team, got an earful from his teammates, heard and read about his mistakes from writers and for sure from other people around him, what more do you want Eddie??? Of all the topics in the NBA that you can pick, why choose this one??? Jumping on the bandwagon maybe or just plane old beating a guy when he is already down???

This rookie initiation is just a bucket of bullshit. Instead of making a kid insecure and intimidated why not boost his confidence instead by making him feel like he is part of a family. Respect is earned not given so making a slave out of someone is serving no good purpose. By letting others bully you is not giving respect to yourself. I am sorry that you have to endure all of those things when you are a rookie but tell me, did your jumpshot improved by delivering donuts and newpaper??? Are you a better person now knowing that when you are younger you live in fear and cant speak your mind for fear of being whacked in the head??? I didn’t know NBA players are be a bunch of sissies.

And please stop giving us bits and pieces of your resume, we already know who you are.
rich Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:19 pm

The problem with Noah is that he is from a culture(french) who thinks they are the center of the world.
Noah thinks he is such a unique person that everybody should be lucky to be around him!
Noah has to realize that is no College environment anymore…It’s a business now and if you can’t put up…shut up.
The lack of leaders in this Bulls team allow him to fill a void.Let Joakim know he has no substance…yet.
Maybe,one day?
josy Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:34 pm

Rich
I agree with you on the lack of leadership from the Bulls veteran.
Who said that a rookie can’t be a leader…just because he is a rookie.
If Noah can shake up this group with his leadership so let it be.
The veterans who only wait for their paycheck won’t be bothered anyway!
Joakim,GO for it and as the wondreful Muhamed Ali once said ”I shook up the world”
Michael Bennett Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 12:40 pm

This is Eddie’s blog, an offensive player/scorer his whole career, someone with a shooting video, etc… but let’s not discount how good Ben Wallace is/was and what he brings/brought to the game.

Yes — Ben Wallace is one of the worst offensive players to ever play in the NBA. But, he’s also one of the best defensive players to ever play the game.

Because the league (and most people) stress offense more than defense, it’s easy to get away with saying Ben Wallace is overpaid or not living up to his contract or whatever other biased way people put it.

Just like the Oscars/Academy Awards, players get rewarded for earlier work. Ben Wallace got his huge contract with Chicago for his championship and the winning years in Detroit. Just like Denzel got his Oscar for TRAINING DAY (when he deserved it for MALCOLM X) or when Russell Crowe got his for GLADIATOR (should have got it for THE INSIDER).

But, let’s not all jump on the “Ben Wallace sucks” bandwagon. He’s THE best defensive player of his generation and one of the top 5 defenders EVER. So…
Warrior Fan Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 1:49 pm

I’m a Warriors’ Fan just browsing around and found this forum. I’ve never seen such a heated debate before! It’s great that you guys have such passionate bloggers. Props to all the responses and props to Eddie keeping the dialogue. Normally, I wouldn’t read the first 10 posts if they weren’t exciting, but this one kept me going and even posting (which I never do). Thanks for the time well spent!

On the issue, though I’m about 50/50. I’m not a big fan of Noah- I think he’s overrated. However, he does have something valuable which is passion and hustle- something every team NEEDS to win. I do credit him with trying to do something for his team as well. However, I think he’s going about it the wrong way- not just in basketball “ethics,” but also in effectiveness.

You can’t change a team by alienating yourself from it. Take that energy and channel it into leverage by improving yourself. I like Eddie’s suggestions about coming to practice early, leaving late, etc. Hold your own first; show your heart in actions, not just words. Then when you earn the respect through your hard work and dedication, your words will carry weight.

Nothing changes overnight. Take a look at my team. I’ve waited 13 years (since the Run TMC days) before the Warriors got it together. But it was well worth it…
Vomitgod Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 2:14 pm

Hey Eddie….

First of all, I DID respond to the blog. I said you have no idea what you were talking about because you weren’t there. You don’t know what was said in the locker room. Noah, Wallace and Deng all said that the media was blowing this all out of proportion. Way to add to it…

Noah is a rookie and he’s learning. He was wrong to fire off at Ron Adams, but Wallace deserves it (if that is even what happened). My friend and I watch every Bulls game and watch in horror as we watch Wallace get outrebounded because of a lack of effort. He’s flat footed and barely moves half the time. Our team gave him 60 million reasons to show some hart and we get it maybe once out of every 4-5 games. Noah PROBABLY just said something that many Bulls fans wish they had a chance to say.

Second of all, I never said I was a writer. I’m just commenting on YOU insulting the mental capacity of some of these bloggers while you write like a 13 year-old girl. I’m just waiting for you to use “OMG” and “LMAO” ad nauseum.

Your “BFF”,

John

P.S. I want to vomit when I read your blog. After this thread I will never read it again…
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 2:33 pm

I can’t believe how Ben Wallace goes from being so underrated during so many years to being so overrated now. Like anyone i was a big fan of him during his detroit days (i even root for that pistons team against the lakers during the finals) but top five ever defensively, that’s a stretch!!!!
Plus, it’s not because he was doing great before that you can’t recognize that he is playing terrible basketball right now. Maybe you forgot him but Dikembe Mutombo was also a great defensive player in this league and can still help a little bit but it’s not disrespecting him or his legacy to say that he is just done now, it’s just the truth and in my opinion he was a better defensive player than Wallace but that’s just mine.
So yes Wallace was great but now he just plain and simple sucks and if he is not responsible for all chicago’s woes (thanks john paxson) he’s a big part of it. He was brought and paied that money for giving big time defense ( not the case), leadership to a young team ( not the case) and bring an attitude to this quiet team ( he brings the bad one, the diva mentality who undermined his coach’s authority and cry because of a headband).
Something needed to be done and even if it was not the right guy doing it, it was needed to make him accountable.
Skills can make you an nba player (see Gerald Green), they can even make you an all star (see Vince Carter) but what makes you a champion is heart, passion hustle and love for the game.
Ben Wallace just forget it.
Jax Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 2:59 pm

I agree with Mr. Johnson, Noah should “not really” or totally shut up, but please choose his words and to whom he would deliver such. There is no question about it, that when you get along well with people around you, you might just learn things; but if you piss them off…. As a rookie, Noah should understand that - though he was a great college player, a champion - a winner, knowing his situation would benefit him more, getting a tip or two from Big Ben would definitely help him. Considering also the fact that the Bulls are struggling… the last thing they need is another distraction.

Melo and Lebron, are on a whole different level. I read about someone using both these guys as an example with regard to the matter. However, did you ever hear Lebron and Melo talk too much during their rookie year? I’m sure they got better by getting something from teammates - simply because they didn’t act like Noah.
Jax Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 3:01 pm

P.S. what i meant with “not really” or totally shut up, i mean to say that definitely he could express his opinions etc… but choose his words and to whom he would deliver such statements. What he did with the assistant coach, i believe no one would disagree that it’s damn wrong!
Djomla Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 3:06 pm

My respect….

Eddie, what are you thinking about Nikola Pekovic? He is 1st centar of Partizan Belgrade? What are you thinking about his games in Euroleague this season ?

Thanks

p.s. sorry for small troll
Calvin O Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 3:07 pm

I’m sure most basketball teams are very happy that Michael Bennett, with his reward-players-for-what=they’ve-done-in-the-past philosophy, isn’t in charge of signing free agents for their teams. Ben Wallace is past his prime, plain and simple– he’s had 5 consecutive years of declining stats and it ain’t gonna turn around, no way, no how. Hey, that Bill Russell guy has a pretty good resume– maybe the Bulls should sign him for 60 mil!
GSWfan24 Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 4:46 pm

I knew Noah was a joke the minute I seen him last night during the Warriors game. While battling for a rebound with Biendrins, he makes a pretty good hustle play to gain possession of the ball and gets fouled, soon after he let out a large yell “Arrrghhhhhh!”. Two out of twelve Bulls players gave him high fives, the others roled their eyes as if to say “What a Jackass”. Nonetheless, he goes to the line and smokes (misses) both free throws. Classic Noah!
craig beckerman Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 5:16 pm

two points first if a pure shooter if given enough opportunitys to do what they do well clearly they will be a scorer - shooter/scorer has always been an idiotic debate in most regards because the only way to know wether someone is a pure scorer is that they have the ability to score without plays being ran for them or needing the ball. to call eddie a scorer is kind of idiotic as neither was the case throughout his career. 2nd babe ruth wasnt just a hitter unknown to most he was also a very good pitcher, what exactly was your secondary ability again??
Michael Bennett Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 6:04 pm

Calvin O — R-E-A-D. I’m not saying it’s MY philosophy. But, it DOES happen. Wallace is proof of that. And, Wallace may be past his prime, but he’s still a valuable asset to the Bulls. Most recent example: Kings game. He did the defensive equivalent of a buzzer beater.

You’re like so many others here — Post quick without reading and/or comprehending… which is the reason why people like Eddie and myself stand above the rest as far as these arguments. And the dunce cap goes to…

Calvin O

PS — Eddie, I think we should start to give awards to the worst blogger. It’s the DUNCE CAP AWARD. Calvin O gets my first vote. Rashidi gets the MVP DUNCE CAP AWARD — lol.
Peterrr Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 6:16 pm

there are quite a few NBA players that have that “fire, passion”
example., rookie Luis Scola..that guy plays with the same heart and fire but he doesn’t go mouthing off and complaining about this and that. the rockets were supposed to be Title contenders now nobody knows if they can make the playoffs. I just can’t wait till someone dunks on Joakim Noah and Screams in his face like he does lol. Guy makes me laugh everytime.
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 7:10 pm

Yes it happens. Unfortunately, it happens and Ben Wallace is certainly not the only overpaid player in the league but that was not the thing that was bothering me with your precedent posts. My problem was you saying he was top 5 EVER defensively and that he is still a valuable asset for the bulls. Please just look at where this team is today and how Wallace is performing on the court and acting off the court. Anyone who has watch a bulls game this season have seen how disinterested he looks and who don’t know that he played a big role in Scott Skiles demotion. He failed to give the team any of the things he was brought for ( even at least leadership, the actual situation being a proof of that). You can’t use a play here and there for saying that Ben Wallace production is anything else than mediocre and certainly not VALUABLE for the team.Ben Wallace has been a huge disappointment so far and if it was not him, he probably would not have played anymore and i am pretty much sure that the young guys (thomas, noah, gray) if given his minutes would have done at least as much and probably more. But Boylan want to make a job for himself in the league and is afraid of taking the risk of confronting Wallace after having seen the guy make his ex boss fired, and it’s just not Deng’s nature to confront people. So who’s left, Hinrich ( he is playing too bad himself), Gordon (he has never been and will never be a leader in any kinf of way). So guys like Duhon and Griffin try to make peace in the locker room and that’s how you come to such a situation.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 7:38 pm

Eddie, can your head get any bigger…seriously??

“The only people that have ever gotten under my skin is coaches that didnt get me the damm ball in crunch time and my wife when she got mad.”

Kingsblade ,
All the people I mentioned also indicated that the guy cares solely about winning and again misunderstood. For example Chris Richard,

“Whatever Jo says, you know he has good intentions and it’s coming from his heart, which is good. But maybe it comes out wrong. Maybe he said it at the wrong time.”

Billy Donovan was quoted as saying on a numerous occasions that no one cared more about winning than Jo. That’s the main thing you need to understand.

So yes, there were selfish acts that he was wrong and I agree with. I even think the suspensions were just. But my point through all of this is that just because the guy is a rookie, the way the bulls have been playing (mainly their efforts in this case), I don’t care who it is, someone needs to get in their superstars face and call him out. And in this case it was Noah. And I support that. That’s where I disagree with Eddie. And then eddie goes and bashes the guys game.

So to build my point as I said earlier is that Noah lays it out on the floor and plays a 100% every night, he and any other player that plays hard and wants to win deserves that right to get in the face of an overpaid vet who has not held his end of the bargain.
new_to_this_ blog Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 8:22 pm

Wow! This is one interesting blog! Or should I say interesting reponses to an highly opininated blog. In keeping in-line with the blog’s title, the author could express his opinion about Joakim keeping quiet - and end the blog before the sentence - ” I remember when I was a rookie..”
joe Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 8:30 pm

shut up why? because hes a rookie ? ok look at it this way game 7 of the finals bulls down by 1 2 sec left ben passes to joakim hie misses a dunk will you excuse him of losing cause he was a rookie ? so he has just as much right to speak up if he finds something not right hell getting blown out and the veteran ben wallace was laughing on the bench van excel did it in la and shaq had him ship out the next season and they had the same amout of time so who’s vetran status cancels who i also rember michael jordan rookie seson hearing the coah say give mike the ball and get out of the way hmmm oakley,woolride, didnt say crap
alex209 Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 8:48 pm

Great article Eddie! Noah needs to shut up and learn from the vets!! People
may or may not agree but the bulls are missing the leadership pj Brown. I liked Noah in florida but let’s face it the real stars were hortford and brewer! Those guys can play and that’s why Horford is the starting center for the hawks and Corey Brewer is in and out of the wolves starting line up. Noah listen to Eddie and SHUT UP!
GN2 Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 9:40 pm

So to build my point as I said earlier is that Noah lays it out on the floor and plays a 100% every night, he and any other player that plays hard and wants to win deserves that right to get in the face of an overpaid vet who has not held his end of the bargain.
________
You cannot play 100% or only be interested in winning if you are late or missing practices, failing to learn the playbook and cutting down other players on your team.

The thought that a team is enhanced by having a guy who has done nothing in the league walk in and act like he has is ….(insert whatever you want). Do you recall Magic, Bird, Jordan, Wade, LeBron or Kobe cutting down vets as rookies? Not only were they better players they were or are smarter teammates as well. If Noah’s comments had been warranted AND appropriate from him the reaction would have more similar to the Wade-Shaq situation. Wade who has earned his stripes commented about Shaq’s effort, Shaq agreed and that was it.

For each person “supporting” Noah, explain why Noah feels that it is his place to put Wallace in his place publicly but the coach, GM, Heinrich, Gordon, Deng, Smith and Nocioni did not do so. None of you can really believe that he wants to “win” (sarcasm) but these other people or Wallace does not.
Paul Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 9:55 pm

Eddie, you don’t get me mad at all. I’m rather amused by this. When people such as yourself say stupid shit, it’s funny. I’m too lightheartted a person to let someone like you get under my skin. You just really should research your facts and try not to be so narrow-minded before writing a column.
Paul Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 10:00 pm

quote: “offense and the ability to make free throws keeps you on the floor”

Then what the HELL keeps Ben Wallace on the floor? I think the last time he scored 10 points in a game was when he played junior girls varsity in high school. He shoots under 50% from the FT line and from the field. If he would only have his right wrist fixed up (it’s kind of messed up; he’ll need surgery once he retires) he may develop some semblence of an offensive game.
David Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 10:38 pm

Damn, I just scanned over 200 entries and well, when I logged onto Eddie’s blog I knew I was in for a treat. Now that Michael Bennett is back, well, I’m now in the midst of greatness! I just have to catch my breath.
David Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 10:41 pm

An ex NBA player (even older than you Eddie lol) told me that one of the reasons the Spurs are successful is that, from day one, Tim was the man. The pecking order was established and never questioned.
Now that they are somewhat slumping (as they do every January), you would never have anyone speak up as Noah did.
And Stacey, on a pal mal de grenouilles ici aussi mdr
Ben Wallace Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 10:56 pm

You know, me having won a ring and all, and being the Defensive Player of the Year, I really should have told Noah the ins and outs of the NBA more, and tried to console him instead of getting into a confrontation. I mean, Rodman was different, I was different, in the sense that I wasn’t drafted, and he is different, for being the incredibly passionate one where passion is sometimes lacking on the team. Me and Noah take personal responsibility for the confrontation being leaked out to the media, and so, it is both of our faults. I should do a better job of teaching him what to do in the NBA, so leave that to me in the vets. I guarantee you that he will play harder and better for the betterment of the team, and that our Bulls will shoot much better and win more games.
Ben Wallace Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 10:56 pm

You know, me having won a ring and all, and being the Defensive Player of the Year, I really should have told Noah the ins and outs of the NBA more, and tried to console him instead of getting into a confrontation. I mean, Rodman was different, I was different, in the sense that I wasn’t drafted, and he is different, for being the incredibly passionate one where passion is sometimes lacking on the team. Me and Noah take personal responsibility for the confrontation being leaked out to the media, and so, it is both of our faults. I should do a better job of teaching him what to do in the NBA, so leave that to me and the vets. I guarantee you that he will play harder and better for the betterment of the team, and that our Bulls will shoot much better and win more games.
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 11:11 pm

Paul

Wallace has not played in crunch time in three years.

Paul you will never know more about this game. sorry pal i don’t need to do research when i can pick up a phone and call or just use my 29 years of experience.

I dont know what you do for a living, but i can’t fathom knowing more than you either pal. At least i understand that fact. lol
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 11:13 pm

Kingsblade

I was not referring to you and Michael with the anger comment.(-:
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 11:28 pm

craig beckerman

Nice to know i was not a scorer and that it is easier to score when a play is ran for you instead of going one on one. i guess that means i was the most prolific player that had a play ran for him.

hmmm —does that mean i was one of the smartest players ever too?

because Craig that means i had to use timing, smarts and my teammates to get shots. Wow Thank you for the kind words Craig lol
Eddie Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 11:30 pm

craig beckerman

I also threw 2 no-hitters in high school, so i guess im ok with you?

lol
tank Said,

January 19, 2008 @ 11:52 pm

I’m a long time lurker and a friend and ex teammate of Eddies. His blog is hilarious to me because one thing you guys don’t know about Eddie is- he loves to argue. I can tell he’s loving all the comments on here. I believe he worded his article the way he did to generate the maximum amount of controversy & comments from all you guys. Some of you are very intelligent with your comments and I believe you have a very high level of understanding of pro sports. But others of you are almost laughably ignorant in what you say.

I’ve read the whole blog today & i have my own biased (I love Eddie like a big brother) opinion of him. Trust, he is not as cocky as he’s coming across on here and he does consider the things said here. At least the knowledgable comments. I think his snide and cocky comments are meant to rile everybody up. And it’s working big time.

Most rookies are treated a differently but it’s really not as bad as it comes off. I played 15 years in the league and the worst I ever saw was a rookie had to bring donuts to practice every day. Yeah if a vet tells you to run errands or get food for him you’re obligated to but I’ve never seen this happen more than 2 or 3 times in a season. Usually by this time of the season you’re still a dumb rookie but there’s a vet who has probably taken you under his wing and is counseling you and teaching you how to survive in the league and the world. Mostly it’s just jokes at they’re expense and some singing and PLENTY of practical jokes. Everybody gets them just the rookies get more. You’d be surprised at the # of rookies who have never even had a checking account till they got in the league. Picture being 20-23 years old and now you have to pay bills, buy your own food, buy suits (most guys have never owned one before now), find a place to live, buy a car, and all the things that come with being on your own in a new town for the first time. This is why rookies should be seen and not heard. Even when Michael Jordan was a rookie I remember how humble and deferential he was to the vets. If you’re producing on the court and getting substantial minutes usually by March you pretty much quit getting rode anyway. I think the issue with Joakim was he just the day before got off suspension for going off on a coach and now he’s in a vets face about his attitude. Kid please. My thing is- why is it a kid with 3 months in the league saying anything to anybody? Where in the hell are your veteran leaders?????

And every player in the NBA has a contract based on what he did BEFORE. Players are drafted & paid based on what they did in college and ALL veteran contracts are negotiated based on what you did in the last contract. Come out of your contract being in the top 10 in mvp voting and you get 60 million. Become a free agent with your averages dropping the past 3 years and you get a contract based on that. Most times if there’s more than 1 team interested in you you’ll get more than you’re probably worth. Supply & demand, it happens every year in this league.

Oh and 1 more thing. Eddie is a shooter. A scorer to me (and most players) is someone you can give the ball to and get out of the way and he will produce points. There are usually only 1 of these per team but I dont think there are 30 guys in the NBA that fit these qualifications. These would be guys like MJ, Kobe, Lebron, D.Wade, Nash, P.Pierce, Baron, and Arenas off the top of my head. These type of guys are rare. The next step down from that are guys like EJ. Eddie was a master at using screens to get open & get his shot off( which is it’s own special craft) AND he had a very quick release but there’s no shame in saying his teammates helped him score. There’s still a whole hell of a lot of guys that couldn’t do what he did. I know I couldn’t.
Eddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 12:30 am

I am so excited that everyone has a view on Noah. When i write an article or i rant like i did with Noah. I never fully explain my intentions on purpose. I am looking for exactly what i got and that is Rage, agreement or another way to express it.

A number of you guys will never get the short version of my article because you depend on tabloids and you have a loyalty to that player or team.

Because of that you will respond with anger like some of you did and thats cool.

Some of you are little understanding, but disagree on how it should be handled and thats cool.

One blogger said how could i say anything because i was not there. What he fails to understand is that i was there. I have been there for 29 years.

I know there is a place and time for a rookie to feel like he can step up and show leadership, but first he has to prove it by example.

1. Be the first player at practice and the last to leave (most important)
2. Pick up the system quickly and don’t bog down the veterans with brain locks.
3.Ask Questions and show respect for Vets and Coaches
4.Don’t play scared and confront physical play against you
5.work on your game hard and show emotion behind it.

Noah has endless energy and a good basic skill set, but right now that is it. i am so disappointed in Billy Donovan that he did not improve this kids offensive game. His form on his shot is extremely bad and his ability to finish around the basket is poor as well.

Bloggers started to compare him to Ben Wallace and that was not my intention with this article. He could have been arguing with any veteran on the Bulls and i would have had a problem with it.

I am on record with my blog( go check) as saying The Bulls should not have signed Wallace and that he would not fit well with them. Why? because he plays well with a good low post and defensive player opposite him. (Rashheed)

So it does not matter that Wallace is not playing well and the Bulls have struggled as a team. Noah stepped over the line the way he confronted his coach and teammate as a rookie.

One blogger said Noah is a man and he should speak his mind. Not—-He is not a man in relation to being a rookie in this league unless you have come to the team and right away you are one of the top three players on the roster. that gets you respect right away.

Lebron, Carmelo, Chris Paul, Chris Bosh, Dwayne Wade are examples of players that would be respected right away for being outspoken. why? because they would give that veteran a what can i say factor if they got up in their face, but still in a respectable way. Like talking to them away from teammates.

Bloggers said time and again how hard Noah works and how rah rah he is. thats all he has to offer people. If Noah did not offer that , he would not have been drafted with his poor offensive abilities. So spare me the rah rah chant!

I didnt explain my article like this because i hoped some of you would think before blasting and some did.

What you guys need to understand is personal attacks about i couldnt play in todays game and that i was all offense etc etc does not bother me. those guys that go that route only do so because they have no way of expressing opposition to my statement about Noah.

Grow up and argue your point and prove me wrong. i communicate privately with a number of bloggers on this site when they have good points.

So, copy and pastse this blog so you know in the future to come with it when i write.

If you have a problem with grammar and the way we write—keep your sorry @#5$ off the blog. I don’t care when i am answering 20 blogs. get over it.

finally i am the all-time leading scorer in the HISTORY of the league per min played over 19,000 POINTS——- Craig, Paul and fake Sunsfan—–plus i played 17 years and turned down 2 more years—–now take that——LOL
Kingsblade Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 1:31 am

sunsfanwhohateseddie:

I love your selective quoting. Why don’t you paste the rest of the quotes?

My 2 year old daughter hates losing too….most small children do. Why does Noah remind me more and more of a small child who is not getting his way?

Joe:

Oakley didn’t play for the Bulls Jordan’s rookie year, and what does giving Jordan the ball have to do with Noah throwing tantrums? Giving someone the ball is not the same thing as crowning him the leader.

By the way, Woolridge took over 1200 shots that year and Quintin Dailey took over 1100, so they didn’t simply give Jordan the ball and get out of the way now did they.

Maybe I’m wrong (I think Eddie could probably clear this up since I was only 11 at the time) but I seem to remember Dave Corzine as being more or less a leader on the team that year.

Besides…I guarantee you Woolridge gave Jordan plenty of crap that year.

The thing I don’t understand is why everyone thinks Noah is a leader. The thing about natural leaders is that it comes naturally to them. That’s even part of the definition.

People fall in behind a leader. A leader’s behavior makes people want to follow them. If his actions lead to something else then I would obviously question his ability to lead, whether he is a rookie or a veteran.

He has tried his best to lead and instead looked like an ass and irritated his teammates. Maybe it is time to try listening for a change instead of demanding things his own way.
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 1:46 am

Eddie,
i don’t think any of your articles ever caused so much reactions and comments and that’s what this kid is all about, hate him or like him but he won’t let you indifferent even as an unproven nba rookie. That’s something not everyone has and you probably don’t know him very well in the US but his father is blessed with even more charisma, believe it or not.
Now before getting back to the subject, let me tell you a little story if you permit me. One of my friend’s mother was beaten time and times again by his husband and he just grew up seeing that. Once, he became strong enough and his father was trying to do that again, he step up and told him to never ever do that again if he doesn’t wanted them to fight.After that, his mother was never beat again.
What i’m trying to say with that story, everything being equal, is that sometimes doing the thing that’s morally unacceptable (like challenging his father) could turnout to just be the right thing to do and go the normal, usual way just lead you to the wrong decision.
I definitely agree with you that Noah should have never, ever confront a veteran, first because he is a rookie and rookies are there for learning and second because he got his own (big) flaws.But, i firmly believe, too that all that bulls team needed was something lke that to happen (time will tell). They have always started slow but this season mentally something is broken and in those case in order to turn around you need either a strong leadership (which is not the case for the bulls, all that thing is just a proof of that) or a shock who forced the team to regroup. In my precedents posts, i explained that no one in that roster was having the qualities to step up for different reasons. I guess that after that, at least you are not going to see Ben Wallace laugh in a 20 point blowout and just that is a good thing.
I just watch the game against the pistons and actually they played well ( not Hinrich) and Noah was pretty effective, particularly in the fourth quarter. I know they got the piston’s number but in the east they can still make the playoffs and if it happens, all that Noah’s thing would have something to do with it.
Sorry for the long post (it’s just passion) and the english ( doing my best but not used)
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 1:57 am

Kingsblade,
You are wondering why people think that kid got leadership ability but have you seen him in college. It was the same, he was definitely the most hated player in the entire NCAA last year, and certainly not the most talented and skilled player on this florida team but everyone watching one of their games could have seen that he was just the heart and soul of that team, particularly during the run for the first title. He need to grow up, that’s clear but it’s also clear that he got leadership abilities.
Vomitgod Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 2:19 am

Eddie….

I know you were responding to my comments about you not “being there”. You weren’t there. You played in a different era….plus I doubt you watch that many Bulls games. You have no idea what you’re talking about…..unless you’ve hung out in the Bulls locker room for 29 years, which would be strange because the UC isn’t even that old.

Example #1

“Wallace has not played in crunch time in three years.”

He sank a free throw (yes…a free throw) to win a game against the Kings on Jan 6th, 2008. That was a COUPLR OF WEEKS AGO! They won 94-93. I also distinctly remember him hitting 4 consecutive free throws against the Heat in the 4th quarter of the playoffs last year when they attempted “Hack-a-Ben”. Care to revise?

Here’s another fine statement of yours I have a problem with:

“What you guys need to understand is personal attacks about i couldnt play in todays game and that i was all offense etc etc does not bother me. those guys that go that route only do so because they have no way of expressing opposition to my statement about Noah.”

It’s difficult to express opposition when you obviously can’t comprehend what’s trying to be said. You told me to “respond to the blog” after I did so in the previous message you were responding to. Maybe I should put my opinion in the form of a coloring book so you can better understand it….seriously. Here it goes anyway:

I am a loyal Bulls fan and I think you are waaaaay off base on Noah. I like the kid and I see him developing into a solid NBA player. He played really well against the Pistons tonight. Being exhuberant and slightly obnoxious is who he is. It’s fun to watch. It helped them win tonight ( he played the majority of the fourth quarter). I could see how this would annoy non-Bulls fans, but his heart is in the right place. He tries. He’s always moving and giving it everything he’s got. I don’t think he deserves YOU to tell him to shut-up. Why don’t you pick on some other waste of talent like Vince Carter, Tim Thomas, or Quentin Richardson. I HOPE Noah doesn’t change. It would take away everything I like about him. You know Pax drafted him and stated that he knew Noah was going to stir up some stuff once in awhile. Leave the kid alone.

-John-
Stacey Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 2:56 am

C’était Français presque passable, David
Calvin O Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 3:29 am

Actually, Mr Bennett, I think the Dunce Cap Award should go to the person who predicted this summer during pre-season NBA action that the Chicago Bulls would win the 2008 championship… and that person is…. ah– it’s Michael Bennett! Great pick! Your basketball knowledge is unrivalled!
Rashidi Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 4:43 am

LOL EDDIE I CANT READ YOUR POSTS THEY TOO LONG

PUTTING ME TO SLEEP

LMAO

“man the only reason i respond is to keep you enraged.”

LOL that’s sad, maybe even a little pathetic. Congratulations on your self-admittance of internet-trolldom.

Everyone move along now.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:01 am

I like how eddie says back up your arguments with facts and good points yet, he insults our intelligence and credibility anytime you disagree with him. Good one eddie. I also like how he cuts you down calling you wanna be nba players and how us bloggers read tabloids for information. Yet, he’s on a website that is filled with rumors from a variety of sources. I should mention that the Chicago Tribune is the source of some of the most ludacris rumors. Yes Eddie I’m fake for calling you out on your antics in public, I guess it must be hard in retirement that you are not the toast of the town anymore. Just a small dose of a reality check for you.

Also Eddie, get over the fact that things that happened in your era is not in existence in the current era! Such as a rookie should shut up regardless. I would always welcome a player getting in the face of a player who is not laying out every night, regardless if he is a rookie. Just cause things were the way they were in the past doesn’t mean its right.

Kingsblade, I hope you don’t mean when me where you indicate that I think Noah is a leader. I have never said that and I simply am arguing that for a losing team, I think anyone who wants to win and gives a 100% has the right to get in the face of a player that is dogging it. Do you or do you not agree? That’s where I totally disagree with Eddie.

Why does Noah remind you of a 2 year old??? In general doesn’t all professional athletes remind you of a 2 year old? LOL, how is he any different. I could probably give you scores of professional athletes who act like that.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:07 am

Okay Eddie, here’s where I back you up, blogs are an informal journal where we can express our feelings on a particular subject. It’s an unwritten rule that we not comment on one’s grammar unless it’s totally incomprehensible. So let’s get off the fact that a guy used your instead of you’re.

Here’s where I bash you again, Eddie, seriously, even with a NBA casual fan, not a lot of people know you. Get off your high horse because you weren’t that good. Solid NBA career, but not great where you can belittle people. Seriously Eddie, get over yourself!
Brian Laesch Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:13 am

The Bulls are basically a glorified college team, like the Florida Gators were, so maybe that’s why Joakim feels he can speak up. Plus, let’s be honest, who is going to step up and tell him what to do? Who are the leaders on this team? Ben Gordon seems like he never talks, ever. Ben Wallace paid his dues, won a championship, got a great deal with the Bulls and stopped caring, or at least started playing like he doesn’t. (Seriously, how can you be in the NBA that long and be so horrible offensively? Ridiculous.) And I thought Kirk Hinrich was a good point guard…until this year…so he doesn’t seem to be the leader they need either. So unless Deng starts calling Noah out on YouTube videos outside of Baja Fresh, I think the Bulls are screwed.
Peter Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:29 am

yo michael bennett, lebron actually had to bring donuts everyday to practice, and rookies still get bitched around. And if you think a single Bulls player gives a rats ass about joakims championships, or that because of them he can talk back, your mistaken.
frank Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:05 am

first off—

stacy,

for you to say that babe ruth should have an * by his records b/c he only played against white ball players is the most asinine thing i have ever heard. no other player, by the time the babe retired, was within three hundred homers of his 714. it took 15 years for jimmie foxx to be the second member of the exclusive 500 club. and it took willie mays 30 years after that to be the second member of the even more exclusive 600 club. and hank broke it with more at bats and far longer career, 39 years later. babe’s achievements are so legendary, that even the thought of suggesting to put an * on his stats is nothing less than a stab in the back to any true sports fans.

as for the rest of you clowns sticking up for noah,

let’s never again put noah’s name in the same sentence with the likes of lebron, melo, and wade. nor should we even think of noah with the like of mj and magic. it’s just uneducated.

however, i do disagree with eddie with the whole arguing with the veterans thing. when it comes to the hazing and off the court antics, that’s all fun and games and part of locker room tradition in any sport at every level. however, if a teammate is slacking, or in nba terms, not living up to his contract, why not say something about it. the only declining big man that deserves that much respect in the nba is shaq. i applaud a rookie for having the balls to speak up. but keep it internal. what happens in the locker room stays there. that should never have leaked out.

what i think everyone is forgetting to mention was the fact that he argued with an asst. coach. that’s unacceptable, especially for a rookie. that’s when he stepped out of his station, especially the way he was said to have berated the guy is not a place for anyone, other than a tenured veteran or a superstar, and even then it’s just not kosher.

and another thing about noah… let’s not forget past stars that starred on ncaa championship teams that seem to come to mind when thinking of where joachim will be when it’s all said and done, barring injury of course:

pervis ellison
christian laettner
scotty thurman
khalid el-amin
ron mercer
eric montross
mateen cleaves
charlie and ed o’bannon
miles simon
jeff sheppard
frank Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:06 am

where are they now?
Rashidi Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:44 am

Going by that logic, where are Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler, James Worthy, Grant Hill, Carmelo Anthony, etc.

Awaiting Hall of Fame enshrinement.
djhott Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 7:34 am

at least noah improved floridas bench

this year 6′10 soph c-f mareese speights, looks better than noah
and if he stays this year, he should be better than al hortford also

and nick calathes is a fr 6′7 whiteboy that can play 1,2,3,

and what if tyler hansbrough stays, he will be a 2time john wooden winner, and still suck in the nba, at 6′8 with that ugly ass no elevation shoulder push shot, that he throws up, and makes ugly ass faces like he is getting fouled all the time. i dont know why more college players cant stop his game

all damn what happened team

g-khalid el-amin
g-reggie freeman
f-scottie thurman
f-mario bennett
c=c/laettner

g-jason williams
g-joe forte
f-chris porter
f-ed obannon
c-big kountry reeves

and in remembrance of steve francis, i want i guys to go to utube
and press francis over troy hudson crossover

and see him shake him 5 times, like a and 1match, and finally laying it up. in a very impressive score

or look up kobe bryant on ben wallace

and check out kobes crossover, dunk over ben wallace from the free throw line, back in the magic days
David Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 7:44 am

Stacey, Ben je suis amerloque, alors tu permts?? mdr
(franchement j’en suis fier, de mon francais)
aussi je suis tres copain de Mahimi (un autre francais ici qui joue dans le D League pour les Spurs)
Shaun Norden Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 7:49 am

No issues with your argument there Eddie, everyone is entitled to their own opinion which I guess loads of people on here can’t understand. No one has the right to tell another person they are wrong when it is opinion based. None of this can be confirmed as fact so resorting to childish responses and tall poppy syndrome is really very embarrassing. Eddie where you may have gone wrong here is your use of the word’s shut up. Ha ha certainly got the argument flowing though and that’s what journalism is. Creating news, arguments, difference of opinion. Great work when it comes to that. Unfortunately most people take the high horse to quickly and prefer to attack back than really make a constructive reply that would actual server everyone better than personal attacks and useless information.
Eddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 9:07 am

Vomitgod

I have been in their locker room the whole year pal. stop trying to figure out how and just know i have. Plus i have watched almost every Bulls game this year. I was a Bulls Fan long before you buddy. i lived at Chicago Stadium it was 10 minutes from my house.

When i say Ben Wallace has not played in crunch time i meant consistently. Thats one game, he sits 85 percent of the time at the end unless they can bring him in for defense for a possesion.

Let me give you a secret—every player that has a contract has heart. you don’t score baskets with heart——stop talking about he has heart—-thats just like saying you take care of your kids—welll duh.

if you ever want to discuss the history of my home town team with me please do. Bob Love, Chet Walker, Jerry Sloan, etc all gave me advice as a young kid.
Eddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 9:09 am

Rashidi

why do you keep coming back? Answer that question and then you know you are hooked. lol
Eddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 9:12 am

sunsfanwhohateseddie

you are a wanna be Basketball player. i am a wanna be lawyer always have. it’s ok i started to think you are a wanna be suns fan.

by the way did you know i once scored 43 points in a half and was the all time leading scorer in the history of the league off the bench lol

i will live on.
Eddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 9:15 am

sunsfanwhohateseddie

everyone knows me pal. you need to get over yourself and face facts. this is the last response you will ever get from me since i am nothing to you. have fun being invisible —-your wish is granted. lol
Stacey Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 9:33 am

Bonds is miles ahead of his competition as well… and hundreds of miles ahead of his non-juiced competition.

Say what you will… I’d rather not bat against blacks than bat against a juiced pitcher.

Babe was able to avoid 1/3 of the US population, while swinging against weak, weak competition. Bonds did a few cycles, and then took on all comers.

Babe Ruth *
Paul Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 9:35 am

Everyone knows you Eddie? Really? Well if that was the case, you wouldn’t have to yell “I’m Eddie Johnson $%^@#” while at the bank and you wouldn’t have to yell “Do you know who I am?” Sometimes Eddie, it helps to think before you speak.

My friend Jay follows the NBA more religiously than I do and I guarantee you if I just casually asked him “Do you know who former NBA player Eddie Johnson is?” If he knew right away, he’d know you as the guy who writes on hoopshype.com.

hah, you picked the Bulls to win it all, what a joke. Come play-off time, I guarantee you that Eddie will say something like “Well, I kind of figured they didn’t have it in them. They lack a proven inside scorer” blah blah blah.
Stacey Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 9:35 am

I live on Cape Cod, so we can talk English if you want to, David.
tank Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 10:40 am

I’m a long time lurker and a friend and ex teammate of Eddies. His blog is hilarious to me because one thing you guys don’t know about Eddie is- he loves to argue. I can tell he’s loving all the comments on here. I believe he worded his article the way he did to generate the maximum amount of controversy & comments from all you guys. Some of you are very intelligent with your comments and I believe you have a very high level of understanding of pro sports. But others of you are almost laughably ignorant in what you say.

I’ve read the whole blog today & i have my own biased (I love Eddie like a big brother) opinion of him. Trust, he is not as cocky as he’s coming across on here and he does consider the things said here. At least the knowledgable comments. I think his snide and cocky comments are meant to rile everybody up. And it’s working big time.

Most rookies are treated a differently but it’s really not as bad as it comes off. I played 15 years in the league and the worst I ever saw was a rookie had to bring donuts to practice every day. Yeah if a vet tells you to run errands or get food for him you’re obligated to but I’ve never seen this happen more than 2 or 3 times in a season. Usually by this time of the season you’re still a dumb rookie but there’s a vet who has probably taken you under his wing and is counseling you and teaching you how to survive in the league and the world. Mostly it’s just jokes at they’re expense and some singing and PLENTY of practical jokes. Everybody gets them just the rookies get more. You’d be surprised at the # of rookies who have never even had a checking account till they got in the league. Picture being 20-23 years old and now you have to pay bills, buy your own food, buy suits (most guys have never owned one before now), find a place to live, buy a car, and all the things that come with being on your own in a new town for the first time. This is why rookies should be seen and not heard. Even when Michael Jordan was a rookie I remember how humble and deferential he was to the vets. If you’re producing on the court and getting substantial minutes usually by March you pretty much quit getting rode anyway. I think the issue with Joakim was he just the day before got off suspension for going off on a coach and now he’s in a vets face about his attitude. Kid please. My thing is- why is it a kid with 3 months in the league saying anything to anybody? Where in the hell are your veteran leaders?????

And every player in the NBA has a contract based on what he did BEFORE. Players are drafted & paid based on what they did in college and ALL veteran contracts are negotiated based on what you did in the last contract. Come out of your contract being in the top 10 in mvp voting and you get 60 million. Become a free agent with your averages dropping the past 3 years and you get a contract based on that. Most times if there’s more than 1 team interested in you you’ll get more than you’re probably worth. Supply & demand, it happens every year in this league.

Oh and 1 more thing. Eddie is a shooter. A scorer to me (and most players) is someone you can give the ball to and get out of the way and he will produce points. There are usually only 1 of these per team but I dont think there are 30 guys in the NBA that fit these qualifications. These would be guys like MJ, Kobe, Lebron, D.Wade, Nash, P.Pierce, Baron, and Arenas off the top of my head. These type of guys are rare. The next step down from that are guys like EJ. Eddie was a master at using screens to get open & get his shot off( which is it’s own special craft) AND he had a very quick release but there’s no shame in saying his teammates helped him score. There’s still a whole hell of a lot of guys that couldn’t do what he did. I know I couldn’t.
Sorry if this post shows up twice. I didn’t see it after posting it last night.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 10:53 am

I picked the Bulls to win it all. I do that EVERY summer. It doesn’t mean I’m less knowledgeable about the NBA. It means I love the Bulls. And, in case they do win, I’ll be the rah rah rah guy (That one was for you, Eddie — lol). I also picked the Cavs to beat San Antonio in the Finals last year. It wasn’t a smart choice (obviously), but I love LeBron and think he’s the best player in the world. I WANTED him and the Cavs to win. And, again, in case they did, I’d be the rah rah rah guy.

Using wrong predictions to prove if someone is “smarter” about the NBA or not isn’t really a reliable basis to judge it on. If that was the case, Charles Barkley would have been fired from TNT for picking the Nets to reach the Finals last year. But, no. He knows more than YOU and I about the NBA. So does Eddie. And, playing for years and years and broadcasting for more DOES matter. That’s the whole point of this blog… See if you can stump the pro. Duh!

And, Paul, when I posted that Eddie said “It’s Eddie Johnson b&$#h!!!” at the bank, I was obviously joking. Do you watch great shows? Have you ever heard of Dave Chappelle? Have you seen the Wayne Brady sketch? It’s taking from that (Do I really have to even explain this?). So, I’ll quote YOU: “it helps to think before you speak” or, in this case, W-R-I-T-E.
angelo Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 10:56 am

I say Joakim has every reason not to shut up. First of all he’s just appealing that things that go on in the locker room should stay there. That’s how it’s supposed to be. That’s why Phil Jackson was stupid for writing that book about his problems behind locker room doors with Kobe when he left the team after the 2003-2004 season.

That mentality that rookies should just shut up is just the kind of mentality that would have put a detriment to the leadership potential that Chris Paul and players like him had in his rookie year. Everyone has the right and I even say the duty to speak up if there’s a problem. Noah is a leader so he should speak up in this time of need for the Bulls. But of course not to the point of insult. Challenge the team and yourself and deliver! That’s the way to get better. But no matter what happens none of this should go beyond the closed doors of the locker room. This stuff leaked out so Noah had every right to blow his top.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 10:57 am

Calvin O — Way to dig through past posts… or, way to remember something I wrote over 6 months ago. Wow!

I didn’t realize I had that much affect on you, Calvin O. Do you spend nights thinking about what I post here?

I know Rashidi thinks about Eddie’s posts ALL… THE… TIME. lol
Ian W Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 11:02 am

During KG’s rookie season, Andrew Lang, who’d been acquired in the deal that sent Christian Laettner to the Hawks, gave Garnett a conspicuous cold shoulder in the Timberwolves’ locker room. “Da Kid” was ranting himself up, trying to get his teammates going, and Lang returned a silent, lethal stare. No rookie was going to lead *him*.

The following draft night, Lang was one of the commodities sent to the Bucks in exchange for Marbury.

I don’t think this is a rookie thing. It’s a talking-before-you-have-respect problem. It’s also a great example of what Jeff Van Gundy was talking about on ESPN friday night: a lack of leadership from Boylan, whose role it is to choose and enforce whatever discipline happens in the locker room. The Bulls have various players coming out talking about this. You don’t want that kind of dissension and division in the locker room, period. It’s horrible for “chemistry” and for the team.
Vomitgod Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 11:50 am

Eddie…

Can we talk about Tom Boerwinkle instead?:) I was born in Chicago as well.

Anyway….since you’re so connected, maybe you can fill us in on what exactly was said between Noah and Wallace, you know….considering that no one else really knows. I’m sure everybody would be interested to find out.

Every player that plays with a contract HAS a heart but doesn’t neccessarily play with heart. You can’t sit there and tell me every NBA player tries to play to their full potential. J.R.Smith? Vince Carter? Come on, Eddie… that’s what I meant. Noah’s “heart” (aka hustle)allows him to get steals, blocks, rebounds and tip-ins when other players would have given up. His heart was giving Rasheed Wallace and the Pistons fits last night. He was everywhere tapping loose balls and ripping rebounds out of the hands of Pistons. I believe that is a quality most teams would like to have in players. The kid’s not bad. Cut him some slack and lose the jock mentality.

-John-
ardo Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 11:52 am

who the heck is he supposed to respect
BRockin25 Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 12:29 pm

sunsfanwhohateseddie, my point is not focused on how great Wallace is. My point, and the point of this article, is that Noah does not have the standing on his team to try to lead or discipline a player like Wallace.

And…

“i am not worried about Joakim Noah being mad at me either and definitely not worried about a confrontation. i believe he will shut up and take my advice.”

Man who knows eddie. Not saying you would care,but he would also be the type to get in your face after one good season or double-double game lol. Why would he listen to you and not his coaching staff or Ben Wallace? It seems like the only people he listens to are people that stroke his ego, like Billy Donovan. I guess youll need to tell him how great he is first lol…but then again you can relate.
Paul Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 12:34 pm

Yes, I’ve seen that Dave Chapelle sketch. It was funny for about 5 minutes before EVERYONE started overusing that ridiculous quote. Wayne Brady is funny, you are not.

I really don’t give a $#@* how long Eddie played, his blog about how Joakim should shut the hell up was ridiculous. Charles Barkley was right when he said that the Bulls are just trying to throw Joakim Noah under the bus because they’re having such a lousy season.

I don’t condone Joakim getting in the face of an assistant coach, but I DO applaud him for yelling at Ben Wallace. I completely forgot that overpaid veterans are allowed to just goof off when their team is losing. Had it been the other way around (Joakim joking and laughing on the bench with Ben Wallace yelling at him) everyone would have called Noah a spoiled punk and Wallace a “great veteran for putting the rook in his place.” Remeber the days when the NBA was about winning and EVERYONE cared when they won or lost? Gee, I guess being an overpaid, underachieving veteran gives you exempt status to that.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 1:32 pm

Paul, please shut up
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 2:14 pm

Eddie, I’m a wanna be suns fan because I dislike you??? hah! good point! I guess Mike D’Antoni must hate the suns too because he dislikes Barkley. Good logic!

As far as me being ignored….wahhhhhh. What in the world would I do, the greatest bench warmer hates me, guess I’ll go eat some worms. I guess I got under your skin huh? hahaha. Why should I get over my self, I’m not the one going around town acting like everyone should know me. Do you honestly think that the normal citizen knows who you are???? You are not in the class of a Barkley, MJ, and Magic. Only people who know basketball know who you are. So pull that crap at a Suns game and not in the general public. Hahaha I love it, old has beens still thinking they are the toast of the town. I never said you had a crappy career, I said you don’t deserve to being a pretentious a-hole in public.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 2:51 pm

“a pretentious a-hole in public”… huh, sunsfanwhohateseddie? Kinda like YOU on this blog?

Way to set up that one…
Rashidi Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 2:55 pm

Hi Rider, do I know you?
craig beckerman Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 3:20 pm

who scored 19k points in there nba career and probally gave up 21k or 23k ? its very funny how every time u say that you were a great player the only thing you talk about is scoring, do you agree your one of the greatest one dimensonal players ever?
craig beckerman Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 3:30 pm

i am extremely curious eddie if your so great in your own mind why does basketball reference.com list your hall of fame probality as .001

eddie jones even scores.oo72 so whats that make eddie jones seven times the player you were?
craig beckerman Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 3:38 pm

my apologies your career is barely better then jones and ranks amongst such great as vin baker mookie blaylock kelly tripucka jeff malone randy smith horace grant and jeff mullins looking at that list and others on there website i see plenty of players even playing today who are very 1 dimensional and that aspect is scoring nothing special everyone move along now
Paul's buddy Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 3:46 pm

Paul said “Eddie, grow up. Never have I heard such ignorance from an NBA columnist, if you can even call yourself one. Part of the reason the Bulls drafted Noah was because of his outgoing personality. It sure as hell wasn’t because he’s an inside scorer (he’s not).”

you think the bulls drafted noah with their first pick just because his personality? do you watch basketball? do you know how scouting works? you should maybe think about your points before you spew them out and look dumb
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 3:50 pm

beckerman — What do you do? Are you going to be in the office job 9 to 5 Hall Of Fame?
David Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 4:48 pm

Stacey, I live in San Antonio so we can speak Spanish if you want to
Eddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 4:58 pm

Paul

No i did not pick the Bulls. tell your friend to just look at the top scorers of all time–he will find me. Or tell him to watch espn classic—you better ask somebody lol
Eddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:06 pm

craig beckerman

wrong plus -minus was always in my favor —-thats why i played silly lol
Eddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:11 pm

craig beckerman

Bet your paycheck against 10k from me that reference.com does not say that? if Eddie Jones is 72 than i have him beat by 15 or so. bet mouth—don’t run—bet or be quiet. lol
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:11 pm

Eddie — Go watch the Patriots game!!! Come on! Oops… me, too.
Eddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:13 pm

i need another article, maybe i will write one about wanting to be a suns fan lol. or i could write about the Spurs being 6-9 on the road.
GN2 Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:29 pm

Now I have seen it all. Guys are now thinking that they are disrespecting a guy who played professional ball in the US. They are so clearly twisted that they do not see how simple their comments are.

This guy named Eddie played a LOT of years as a professional player. That is enough to say that he knows more about an NBA locker room and team chemistry than some guy who might have played little league baseball. If you disagree with him, great. But to attempt to disparage the fact that he did not end up as Jordan or Bird is stupid. He played in a league that we watch on TV. Think about it.

You do not have to agree with him but you but if you can think at all you have to see that comparing your opinion to his about something that he was paid for about 17 years makes the you, who has never been drafted, never played before 15-20k, and frankly can only guess at what it is like being a professional athlete, look very dense.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:32 pm

Well written GN2…

Now, all we have to do is let Eddie know that although he played 17 season and commentated for 8+, he’s WAAAAAAAY off on this last post.

It’s a commercial with the Pats.
GN2 Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:36 pm

Playing doesnt make him right but it does make some of you look tre foolish for trying to dis him. Since some of you like stats so much, enjoy.

Going into the 2006-07 season the NBA career scoring leaders were as follows.

1 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar 38387
2 Karl Malone 36928
3 Michael Jordan 32292
4 Wilt Chamberlain 31419
5 Moses Malone 27409
6 Elvin Hayes 27313
7 Hakeem Olajuwon 26946
8 Oscar Robertson 26710
9 Dominique Wilkins 26668
10 John Havlicek 26395
11 Alex English 25613
12 Reggie Miller 25279
13 Jerry West 25192
14 Patrick Ewing 24815
15 Shaquille O’Neal 24764
16 Charles Barkley 23757
17 Robert Parish 23334
18 Adrian Dantley 23177
19 Elgin Baylor 23149
20 Clyde Drexler 22195
21 Larry Bird 21791
22 Hal Greer 21586
23 Gary Payton 21455
24 Walt Bellamy 20941
25 Bob Pettit 20880
26 David Robinson 20790
27 George Gervin 20708
28 Mitch Richmond 20497
29 Tom Chambers 20049
30 John Stockton 19711
31 Bernard King 19655
32 Walter Davis 19521
33 Terry Cummings 19460
34 Clifford Robinson 19388
35 Bob Lanier 19248
****36 Eddie Johnson 19202 ****
GN2 Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:39 pm

To appreciate 19202, look at who behind Eddie.

37 Gail Goodrich 19181
38 Allen Iverson 19115
39 Reggie Theus 19015
40 Dale Ellis 19004
41 Scottie Pippen 18940
42 Chet Walker 18831
***43 Isiah Thomas 18822
***44 Bob McAdoo 18787
***45 Mark Aguirre 18458
46 Dolph Schayes 18438
***47 Rick Barry 18395
***48 Julius Erving 18364
49 Glen Rice 18336
***50 Dave Bing 18327
***51 World B. Free 17955
***52 Calvin Murphy 17949
53 Lou Hudson 17940
***54 Chris Mullin 17911
***55 Lenny Wilkens 17772
56 Bailey Howell 17770
***57 Magic Johnson 17707
***58 Rolando Blackman 17623
59 Otis Thorpe 17600
***60 Earl Monroe 17454
61 Kevin Garnett 17337
***62 Kevin McHale 17335
63 Jack Sikma 17287
64 Kevin Willis 17241
65 Jeff Malone 17231
***66 Bob Cousy 16960
67 Kobe Bryant 16866
68 Buck Williams 16784
69 Latrell Sprewell 16712
***70 Tiny Archibald 16481
GN2 Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:43 pm

Not a bad career when you can say that you scored more than Isaiah, Bob Mac, Aguirre, Rick Barry, Dr. J., Dave Bing, World B. Free, Calvin Murphy, C. Mull, Lenny, Magic, Ro Blackmon, The Pearl, McHale, Bob Cousy and Tiny.

If you are going to disagree, have at it. But if you are dissing him, you are certainly dissing the guys who are behind him too.
GN2 Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:45 pm

Michael Bennett Said,
January 20, 2008 @ 5:32 pm

Well written GN2…

Now, all we have to do is let Eddie know that although he played 17 season and commentated for 8+, he’s WAAAAAAAY off on this last post.

It’s a commercial with the Pats.
___________________________ Funny.
Eddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 5:46 pm

GN2

well said now i will concentrate on my next article.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:01 pm

What’s the next article? …how the Lakers are only as good as Andrew Bynum, NOT Kobe. Hello.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:04 pm

What’s the next article about? How LeBron IS better than Kobe? lol
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:06 pm

What’s the next article about? The Suns will NEVER win a ring because of Steve Nash’s lack of defense? Another big ‘hello’.
GN2 Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:10 pm

The Suns will NEVER win a ring because of Steve Nash’s lack of defense? Another big ‘hello’.

____________
I agree with that. Sorry E.J.
Paul Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:20 pm

Michael Bennett, your comment was stupid. Did you somehow assume that telling me to shut up would make me think “hey, you know what? I should and I will.” My last comment was legit, so just because you had no good comeback, there was no need for you to reply with such a juvenile response.

The Bulls suck, but for the big story to be about Joakim stepping out of line is ridiculous. How about Big Ben not playing up to his contract? John Paxson’s unwillingness to add an inside scorer?

Eddie, I sure hope your next article has something this one clearly lacks; substance.
big boi troy Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:33 pm

oooo come on joakim noah doesnt needed to shut up. anything that he said needed to be said god knows none of the other players were saying anything. and joakim noah comes from a competive school and was the leader of that school, he said what he needed to be said and wasnt scared of what everybody like you would say.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:37 pm

THIS Eddie article is perfect, Paul. It allows people to post “Paul, please shut up” and it be HIGHlarious, like when I posted to you.

Just because you’re posts are invalid, doesn’t make Eddie’s article or my response any less funny or relevant. It’s aimed directly at baffoons like YOU.

HA!
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:39 pm

Top 3 Worst Bloggers (in no particular order)

- craig “lowercase and lowerbrain” beckerman
- Paul “The Dunce”
- “Million words” Rashidi
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 6:43 pm

Barkley took a different approach during a Thursday broadcast.

”They are trying to kill this kid, and it’s the veterans on that team that stink,” Barkley said. ”I want them to stop trying to throw [Noah] under the bus and say that he is screwing up the team. The reason that the Chicago Bulls stink is because of their veteran players.”
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 7:27 pm

Eddie definitely got the right to think that he got more basketball knowledge and more insight than all of us but certainly not more than Charles Barkley. So for all of you who feel validated by Eddie’s opinion, the other half thinking otherwise feel validated by Barkley’s one and i’m pretty much sure that Barkley don’t agree with rookies confronting veterans.
I understand Eddie’s point “a rookie is a rookie and no matter what he should shut up”. Usually, i would agree but in this case with a good basketball team seriously underachieving and veterans laughing during 20 points blowout i think it’s not that much a bad thing even if it goes against the conventional thinking.
Someone needed to step up and the kid got the guts to call out Ben Wallace. Is he perfect? no, but you can’t say he don’t care and he is not competitive. It’s not like he went to the media criticizing Wallace and i don’t know who made that public and why but he was the one really acting wrong.
Joris Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 8:02 pm

I guess Barkley sucks because he’s not as good a shooter as eddie the divinity :p
Michael Bennett Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 8:39 pm

Why do bloggers write random, incomprehensible, non-relative jargon that cannot possibly be responded to, but they think is highly intelligent? AKA Joris.

Eddie — We need a filter here. All moronic views HAVE to be tossed. Then, all the bigoted responses deleted. And, then, and only then, can we have a discussion involving literate people that want to further this topic.

People like Joris should do something called REVIEWING. REVIEW — reporting the past actions or events — THEN, adding his/her two cents. Wait… no. He/she should add a comment like:

“I guess Barkley sucks because he’s not as good a shooter as eddie the divinity :p” and pretend, in his/her fantasy world, that any of us can actually answer nonsense like that.

Arnold said “Get serious” and I totally agree.

PS — Eddie — Send me an email and I’ll send you a link to my movie that’s coming out on Feb. 26th.
Matt BT Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 9:31 pm

If you anyone thinks that rookies don’t need to pay their dues in the locker room, and that “hazing” of sorts is old fashion, you are WRONG. Patrick O’Bryants rookie year he refused to do what Jason Richardson told him to do, so his car was filled to the top with popcorn, same thing happened to Andre Igoudala. Devin Harris had to take players and coaches bags to the airplane sometimes. There is a funny clip of Chris Paul carrying Lebron and Melos bags during international play because even though the NBA season was over he still technically a rookie. The list goes on and on, there is nothing wrong with it and everyone should go through it…it is Noahs ego that gets in the way, just sit back, pay your dues and Eddie puts it best, just shut up
David Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 11:03 pm

Eddie, go ahead and write an article on the Spurs road record. It’s about the same as last year when you and everyone else wrote them off in February.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 11:05 pm

Michael Bennett, Yeah I set it up with real world examples, dumb ass. So I guess you and Eddie must be chummy as he nominated you as one of his favorite bloggers on his jumpshotclub website? Not sure how that ever happened when you believe Lebron is better than Kobe right now?? It kills me to say this as a Suns fan but, WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU SMOKING?? Eddie’s favorite line. lol

“PS — Eddie — Send me an email and I’ll send you a link to my movie that’s coming out on Feb. 26th.”

haha what are you guys compadre’s?? You guys remind me of Raja Bell and Kobe. It must have been a hate relationship and now it’s so G-rated it makes me want to puke. Hey Eddie, can I brown nose you some more and also disagree with you so that you won’t insult and ignore me??? Maybe, we can take a picture in public so I can show all my friends.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 11:31 pm

“i need another article, maybe i will write one about wanting to be a suns fan lol. or i could write about the Spurs being 6-9 on the road.”

Eddie, maybe you can post one about how to go around town acting like a HOF athlete.

Or

How to open a business that teaches one how to shoot at a career .335% 3pt percentage.

Or my favorite

How to grow a mustache like a porn star. hahaha!
Kingsblade Said,

January 20, 2008 @ 11:46 pm

KOLY TENGUELA:

Leading a college team is not at all the same thing as leading an NBA team. Not even close.

Also, Barkley never said Noah was right to do what he did, he said that the vererans suck and that they shouldn’t throw him under the bus. This is not the same thing as saying “Noah was perfectly within his rights to call out veteran players on his team even though he has been a bit of a joke so far in his NBA career.”

Barkley’s point is simply that things should have been kept quiet, not that Noah was acting appropriately.

sunsfanwhohateseddie:

The comment about people who seem to think he is a leader was a general comment in response to a number of people on here, it was not directed at you. I tried to do so by leaving an extra couple of spaces before saying it, but I guess that didn’t work.

Yes there are a lot of immature professional athletes, and few who actually throw tantrums ever gain the ear of their teammates. As for your claim that he gives 100%…Isn’t part of giving 100% showing up on time and studying the playbook? It is easy to give it your all on the floor, it is harder to give it your all in other aspects of the game. I find it odd to claim that he gives 100% when he cannot do these things, and even odder to think that he has the right to criticize others until he can address his own problems.

oh, one more thing….Paul, please shut up.
Paul Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 12:28 am

kingsblade, you too, have no legit argument you piece of &$%^. It must be hard to read someone’s post (one that speaks the truth) so you resort to stupid stuff like that. Facts are facts; Ben Wallace is a baby who has no business telling Joakim what/what not to do. When he grabs 10 rebounds in a game again, MAYBE, just MAYBE, he can speak up.
Paul Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 12:31 am

hah, yeah would filter out all of the posts that disagree with his, which would leave only kingsblade and Michael Bennett posting on here. That in itself would be amusing. “filter out the comments that are not so bigoted.” I guess that eliminates Eddie’s article all together, seeing as how it’s not only targetted at Joakim Noah, but rookies in general. You made a great suggestion Michael
Paul Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 12:35 am

Ah Michael, how much of a life you really have. Coming up with childish nicknames for people you don’t even know. That shows initiative. Is this what your life has been reduced to?

Whether you’re a rookie or a 15 year vet, every player has a right to call out his teammates.

P.S. You might want to look up the term BLOG in the dictionary. Posting on here does not make me a blogger; the actual blogs I post on livejournal.com DO make a blogger.
Paul Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 12:42 am

Enough of the stupid “war” on here. The consensus is, Eddie’s article was narrow-minded and dumb, to say the least. It attacked a player and rookies in general. Then some douche who pretends to be Eddie Johnson is acting like he’s king s*@# trying to stroke his own ego (because he can’t find a woman to do that FOR him, if you know what I mean). I’m fairly certai the REAL Eddie Johnson doesn’t have anger or maturity issues like wannabe Eddie on here.

If the REAL Eddie Johnson ever reads this, then please, with all due respect, write a not-so-hateful article next time. As for Michael Bennett and kingsblade, get a life and don’t get all defensive when someone disagrees with an opinion of yours. Enjoy the webiste, and just chat away with whomever you meet on here. We all have one thing in common; we like/love basketball. Well, one more thing; we all think that Shawn Bradley was the biggest joke the NBA has ever seen.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 1:20 am

Kingsblade, I think you’re reading too much into me saying that he’s giving a 100% . I simply meant that he gave a 100% on the floor. Again, I agree with all the other stuff you mentioned. And again, I disagree with you that he can’t call out a veteran for not doing something as simple as playing hard. Let’s not go in a circle again and say he should learn his plays or that he should show up on time, because quite frankly let’s agree to disagree. I understand your points but I disagree. I think we’re at the point of a standstill. Good discussion though and I have a lot more respect for you, unlike Eddie who will insult your intelligence.

Paul, I honestly think that this genuinely is EJ. All his comments sounds like it comes from a narcissistic, pretentious, and arrogant individual. Which is exactly what Eddie is. Why else would I be here, where else can I voice my displeasure to him. Unfortunately, I got to him (ironically he said he never lets a blogger get to him) and he pretends to ignore me. haha
Kaivi Jakes Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 2:19 am

I thought the NBA was a grown man’s league…well if I was in the NBA do you think I would let anyone..and I mean ANYONE other than the coach degrade me in any kind of way.

I ain’t cleanin no shoes, I ain’t gettin nobody no donuts, and I show ’nuff ain’t bout to be quiet especially for no sorry fools like the Chicago Bulls got on that team this year.

Ben Wallace lookin’ like a damn buckwheat impersonator…What a joke.

I wouldn’t respect them clowns if I was Noah either, and I don’t care what he did in college. You still gotta give respect to get it.

Eddie, I think you are on point that he needs to stop complainin’, but it seems like this Noah kid has a lil what I like to call heart…I won’t down him for that.
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 2:19 am

Kingsblade,
I do believe that like any of us Barkley was perfectly aware when he made his comments of the fact that Noah has been late in practice at times, that he didn’t know completely the playbook or that he had an argument with a veteran in the locker room but contrary to Eddie, he choose to take his defense saying that the veterans were trying to “throw him under the bus” and accusing him to “screw up the team” and that he wanted them to stop. So my english is definitely not as good than yours but it looks to me that he was not just saying “that things should have been kept quiet”. Like i said in my post, i agree with you that things like that should never happen, and i don’t think that Barkley too like the fact that rookies challenge veterans but nevertheless he choose to take his defense, so why in your opinion? Once again,the usual, conventional thing to do is not always the best and maybe events will prove me wrong but i have a feeling that the Bulls will make the playoffs as an eighth seed and a reason of that turnaround in their season would have been all that “affair” with Noah calling out some vets.

“It is easy to give it your all on the floor”
Believe me, when you are a twentysomething millionnaire, it’s not that easy to do it day in and day out and i won’t even try to list all the nba players who don’t give it their all on the court, it would take too long. Also, i would always rather took someone that give effort over another one who know the playbook but don’t give a damn; which doesn’t excuse Noah for that in any way.
He definitely need to grew up but in no way he deserves all the harsh things that you think about him. If Eddie have made his article after he snapped at an assistant coach, i would have been the first one to criticize him but in this particular case, he deserve in my opinion more “praise” than critcism.
Jin Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 2:34 am

Thank GOD someone pointed this out.

Joakim’s a notorious big mouth, and though I admit no one in the Bulls is a DEFINITE leader cause it’s a young team to begin with (with the exception of Big Ben), rooks should calm down and show some respect.

didn’t Scott Skiles criticize him for being so loud too?
Jason Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 2:55 am

Wow, if all ESPN wants to do is create controversy, then why don’t they just hire eddie? It’s like these people will die if you don’t respond.
Eddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 3:58 am

You guys are softer then the suns interior defense. Get on with your lives
Eddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 3:59 am

And wannafan what you smoking? Maybe you should pass that and I’d agree with you. 17 years! rah rah rah.
djhott Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 8:07 am

OK IF A EX NBA STAR SAYS WE ARE ALL WANNABE NBA PLAYERS

IM A WANNABE 6′7 PERSON. IM A 5′8 BARON DAVIS, IF I WAS 6′7 ID BE IN THE NBA TOO, LOL

EDDIE WAS A GREAT PLAYER, AND WAS IN THE NBA

NASH DEFENSE SUX, AMARES DEFENSE ISNT TOO HOT, AND MARION CANT GUARD BIGMEN, THE FACT IS PHOENIX BETTER HOPE THEY DONT PLAY G.STATE IN THE 1ST RD, OR DENVER

BUT IVERSON WILL BREAK NASHES ANKLES, AS WILL BARON DAVIS
AND IM SURE STEPHEN JACKSON WOULD GIVE NASH A HARD CHEAP SHOT ALA ROBERT HORRY.

JOKIM NOAH DOES NEED TO SHUTUP,
BUT IF DURANT WANTED TO TELL RIDNOUR OR SWIFT SOMETHING
GO AHEAD

SUPRISINGLY NOAHS ROOKIE TALKING IS NO WORSE THEN CHRIS DUHONS VETERAN SHOOTING,
3PGS I COULD BEAT IN THE NBA-JACQUE VAUGHN,ERIC SNOW,DUHON,

BIBBY TO THE CAVS FOR DREW GOODEN&DAMON JONES

CAVS TRADE LARRY HUGHES,S.BROWN,VEAJO&PICK, FOR J.CRAWFORD,DAVID LEE, JEROME JAMES

BULLS TRADE-B.WALLACE,C.DUHON-FOR MARBURY
BULLS DRAFT-DEANDRE JORDAN,ROY HIBBERT,OR THABEET

CARON BUTLER IS A ALLSTAR, AND IF THE COACHES DONT VOTE BARON DAVIS AS A ALLSTAR, HE WILL COME HARD IN THE 2ND HALF OF THE SEASON AND AVERAGE 26PTS 10 ASTS
djhott Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 8:11 am

MARBURYS SALARY COMES OFF BEFORE BEN WALLACE
AND EVEN THO EVERYONE HATES HIM
HE IS BETTER THAN DUHON
AND HE COULD CONTRIBUTE A LITTLE MORE THAN BEN WALLACE, AND COME OFF THE BOOKS JUST AFTER 1 SEASON-AND WHOS TO SAY B.GORDON WILL BE THERE.

THE NOAH INCIDENT, AND BEN GORDONS PLAY MAY BE WHAT SPARKS THE TEAM TO MAKE A PLAYOFF RUN, ALL THEY HAVE TO DO IS DO WHAT MOST EXPECTED THEM TO DO AT THE BEGINNING
AND THAT IS WINNING 30 OUT OF 40 GAMES
Rashidi Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 11:32 am

Uh, Michael Bennett, who are you again? Eddie’s sex slave?

“Eddie — We need a filter here. All moronic views HAVE to be tossed. Then, all the bigoted responses deleted”

Says the guy who lists “top 3 worst bloggers”. Sit down tool.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 11:48 am

Oh, yeah… because I’m standing in front of my computer.

Rashidi — You’ve never made sense in any of your hundred page rebuttals. I’ll quote the principal from BILLY MADISON:

“Mr. Rashidi, what you’ve just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul.”

That about sums YOU up.
michalke Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 2:06 pm

Eddie Johnson! You’re a joke! A rookie should have the same rights as every other player in the NBA. Yeah, noah should say what he’s thinking…Conflicts are there to be solved, aight! Man, I lost the respect from you!

PS: A donut is not what a professional player’s supposed to eat!
mohamed Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 2:15 pm

finally somebody said it, this spoiled kid i dont know who he thinks him self the ncaa is not the nba and he is messing with the beast (big Ben) so shut up noah and listen and use that energy in the right direction.
Rod Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 2:33 pm

Noah it taking heat from everybody and we all forget that he is only a human being who learns at his own pace. Problem is this is the NBA and not his pace. I agree he should not be the spokesman for this team yet because he has not paid his nba dues yet. But everyone is angry in Chicago because Paxson let skiles form a group of scrappy and talented nba players but not consistent all star level players other than hinrich and wallace. To make everybody happy in chi-town they need to keep their interim coach for now and look for a complete roster cahnge trade some younger players for a legit all star if you can by the deadline if not in the 08-09 season.
Paul Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 2:54 pm

It appears Mr. Bennett has run out of material and therefore posted a quote from a lousy movie> not just a quote from a lousy movie, but a quote that has no bearing on this blog what so ever. Bravo
craig beckerman Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 3:37 pm

shawn bradley was no worse then ralph sampson the diffrence at one time bradley was expected to be a savior which was a role he couldnt live up too. he was one of the most SKILLED big men at the time and was a contributor in the nba , you dont make it over 10 years in the nba on potential alone. he could pass ,rebound, defend, and score and shoot a high percentage, not just dunk. i dont think you can blame him for the physical inabillity to gain weight, nor for being the exact same player he was in college ,the nba should have known how his game would have translated better. theres alot of negativity about his career ” top ten dunks on shawn bradley” but lets remember he was also a leader for awhile in blocks. bradley ALways worked hard and cared about the game and some things he didnt have control over. i would rather have been bradley then a 6-7 jump shooter only capable of contributing in 1 way. when your looking for jokes of nba careers theres alot worse out there and no i dont mean eddies . just so everyone knows i do think obviously eddie was great at what he did just his ego needs checking
Michael Bennett Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 4:04 pm

Paul — if you think BILLY MADISON is a “lousy movie”, then you don’t know anything about movies. It spawned the unbelievable career of one of today’s best actor/comedians. It was a perfectly relevant quote that now applies to YOU, too.

I’d advise that you a) think before you talk and b) learn a thing or two about basketball (and movies)

Okay, Paul? Or, please shut up.
Eddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 4:53 pm

craig beckerman

i will write an article about how Shawn Bradley was better than Ralph Sampson next time. I hope the basketball gods don’t strike me down trying to prove that one.

you have no knowledge of the game, but you are a comedian.

you, A million words Rashidi and fake i wanna be a suns fan should cruise together and read how to play basketball books. lol
Eddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 5:00 pm

sunsfan

meet me at the bank on the 28th and you will find out. 10am—-this is not a threat —–i just want to see the person who thinks i am a big ego and rude to bankers. i want you to see me in action. dag i talked to you.

Michael and Kingsblade disagree with me all the time so stop accusing them of anything.

i honestly think you guys are hilarious!

please paul, rashidi and fake suns fan shut up and let me work on my next article.

so funny—–by the way did i tell you i once scored 43 points in a half against the clippers in 88. did i also tell you i actually had the ball in my hands 55 seconds. lol
Kingsblade Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 5:12 pm

Paul:

I think you are wound just a bit tightly. I was joking, that’s why I make the little winky face after my comment. You can’t take these things so personally and then accuse us of being defensive. All I have done is try to argue my point with logic while you, on the other hand, are making Noah look like the perfect model of maturity with you angry response.

KOLY TENGUELA:

Keeping it quiet was exactly what he meant. Let me explain. When he says “throw him under the bus,” he means that they are using him as a scapegoat for their problems. In other words, an excuse. When they are making an excuse it is to the public, ie. fans via the media. The primary method they have available to make excuses is through the media.

Therefore, when he says they are throwing him under the bus it means they are making him the scapegoat, or excuse, to the media…which is the same thing as making it public. In other words Barkley wanted them to keep it internal and not make a media issue out of it by blaming him publicly. Otherwise how exactly would they be “throwing him under the bus?” If it isn’t public there is no bus to throw him under.
Kingsblade Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 5:17 pm

Eddie:

Please don’t use a Clippers game to brag about. I could have lit up the Clippers.

It is also true for those who think I just automatically agree with Eddie can go back a couple blogs and read a lengthy discussion we had about Chip Engelland (third best shooter I have ever seen). I still am a bit irritated with Eddie over that one, and I am/was a big Eddie fan.
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 6:51 pm

Kingsblade,
i don’t feel like i’m strong enough for going into a discussion triyng to dissect Barkley’s words.
Overall, it was a good argument and hopefully, if Eddie’s next article is interesting ( by the way, he never enjoyed as much success as a blogger than for this one so he should at least give some props to the kid for that when he will meet him) you are going to share the same opinion.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 7:04 pm

Good Idea Eddie,let me start my reading with:

“How I amazingly played 17 seasons as a 1 dimensional player” by No “D” E

Then I’ll move on to:

“How to request a trade when a coach rides you hard” by cry baby eddie

LOL, I think that should keep me entertained for awhile what do you think?

As far as meeting you at the bank, 10am on a Monday, hmmm let me go ask my boss if I can meet and observe Eddie at the bank. I think that would go over very well with him. If you were serious about meeting me send me an email, I would not love, but opt to go forward with it. Of course I don’t feel threatened, if you hit me, you would help me retire early and pay for my kids college! haha. BTW, banks are open on Saturdays.
Paul Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 7:16 pm

Michael, do not try and match wits with me when it comes to basketball. It wouldn’t be fair to you. I guarantee you I’m not the only one who disliked Billy Madison. It’s called “personal opinion.”

fake Eddie, enough already. I said “with all due respect” in my last comment to you and you still won’t leave well enough alone. Yeah, and bloggers don’t get to you…..you’re sure presenting a strong case for your argument. Gabe Muoneke and James White pay no attention to the people who dislike their blogs. You seek out people who disagree with you and bash them for it. Are you that desperate for attention? You and your stooges telling me to shut up a) won’t cause me to shut up and b) shows how pathetic you boys are.

kingsblade, my bad. I’ve no beef with you. Had fake Eddie and his stooge Michael cared to read, it was my idea to put an end to this childish “war” on here. For Christ’s sake, enough is enough. But hey, whatever floats your boat.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 8:03 pm

Paul — I have more NBA knowledge that I forgot that you will ever know. I love when rooks like you come in to a message board like this and pretend to be smart and smooth. Talk to me when you’ve earned the respect of the guy who actually writes the articles.

I’ll have an NBA knowledge contest with you any day of the week. Let’s get it started and see what you got, pal. Let’s start with who you think is the best player in the NBA right now and why… Most people on here know my opinion, but let’s see what you got…
Kingsblade Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 8:26 pm

Best player?

That’s an easy one….it’s Marbury…just go ask him and he’ll tell you himself.
Chowan30 Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 8:45 pm

Noah is a good player and consciously he believes in himself. There is nothing wrong with that, the whole hierarchy BS is really a screwed up system everywhere. Maybe Noah’s timing is just off on some of his comments, but he wants to win has always won at every level and quite frankly the Bulls just aren’t winning. He would probably respect the vets if they were winning.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 8:52 pm

This is getting hilarious! Best player? Well I’ll go with best scorer ever,

That’s an easy one….it’s Eddie Johnson…just go ask him and he’ll tell you himself. LOL
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 8:56 pm

Michael Bennett, earn the respect of the guy who writes the articles? What is that your crowning achievement in life? Do you realize how much of a douche you sound like. Let me spare you the creative “like how you generally sounded on this board” reply. Haha, You and Eddie are made for each other.

I like when guys think they have establish themselves on forums and think they are genuinely more knowledgeable than most just because you come on here all the time and brown nose Eddie. It’s probably because most people have lives and would much rather only spend a fraction of their time debating certain issues….not every topic Eddie posts. I guess you’ve always got one of those on every board. So with that said, congrats Michael Bennett, you are the winner of “respect me I always come on this board” douche bag award! *PARTY FAVORS BLOWING*
Paul Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 8:57 pm

Michael, don’t embarrass yourself man. I don’t follow the NBA as much as I used to and I still know far more than you ever will. What it boils down to is, who the fuck cares who knows more?

You only earned Eddie’s respect because you agreed with his article and massaged his ego in the process. I could’ve done that if I was that desperate for the approval of a former NBA player who was less athletic than Kyle Korver.

On a personal level, I have no issue with you. Why? Because I have a life man. I don’t battle wits with people I’ve never met, and especially with people who just lash out instead of forming a legit, mature opinion about a subject matter.

The best NBA player (overall, not just on one end of the floor, as most people tend to base their opinions on) is Kobe Bryant. LeBron eventually will be the best, but that’s for another day. Kobe’s ballhandling, killer instinct, and his shooting ability are great. When he puts his mind to it, he’s the best perimeter defender in the game (best overall defender is Ron Artest). He wants to win more than any player on the planet, and (as of late) his unselfish manner has helped propel the Lakers to elite status in the West. You can say how LeBron carried the Cavs to the Finals, while Kobe hasn’t been out of the 1st Round since Shaq left. However…..LeBron did it in the East, against a Gilbert Arenas and Caron Butler-less Wizards team, a weak Bulls team, and a worn out Pistons squad. They then were anihilated by my Spurs. What it boils down to is, Kobe’s D, shooting, killer instinct, and his drive make him the best player in the NBA.
Paul Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 8:59 pm

Oh, and rook? Man, you’re very smooth. I’ve followed the NBA for years man. I only recently started posting on here because I found Eddie’s article to be dumb.
Paul Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 9:02 pm

sunsfanwhohateseddie, well said man You hit it right on the nose.

Uh oh, I guess I feel uber proud now Michael, because I MAY have just earned the respect of a guy who actually posts on this forum! OH MY GOD, WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! NOW I’m cool.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 9:14 pm

The brilliant mind of Paul writes the following: “…because I found Eddie’s article to be dumb.”

Way to think that one out. “Dumb”, huh? Dumb. What? Are you six years old?

I’ve established myself on this message board as a smart (opposite of dumb) basketball mind. And, like you admitted, you just chimed in of late because you thought Eddie’s article was “dumb”.

So, now you and sunsfanwhohateseddie can go skip on the beach holding hands knowing that you are both out of your element… and have failed to prove any of your points. Well done.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 9:26 pm

Thanks, I think you just proved one of my points, Michael Bennett is a douche bag. The only thing you established is that you are a brown noser in need of approval from a former athlete.

Do you still go to every Eddie blog and post your opinion? I bet him responding to you over the years makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I can see your little ego saying “you complete me”.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 9:30 pm

And, it’s obvious that you haven’t watched the NBA in a while… LeBron is BY FAR the best player in the league right now.

He leads the league in scoring (29.7 compared to Kobe’s 27.7). He’s averaging just under 8 rpg and 8 apg, numbers that compare only to the greatest of all-time, MJ (88-89 — 32.5 ppg, 8 rpg, 8 apg). He’s averaging 2 spg and 1 bpg. And, those are just the stats.

He’s the best scorer in the league, able to get to the rim better than anyone in the league. He is double and triple teamed on every single play, but he still scores and finds his teammates for open jumpers. He’s improved his jump shot, shooting over 48% from the field (Kobe is at 44%). He’s now one of the league’s best defenders, able to guard positions 1-4. He makes his teammates better on every possession. He has only one major downfall — free throw shooting.

I’d argue that Kobe isn’t even the 2nd best player in the league right now. I’d say Dwight Howard is. He’s dominant on both ends of the floor, reminiscent of a young Shaq.

Then again, I actually watch the NBA. And, you only sometimes chime in and call someone “dumb”.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 9:31 pm

sunsfanwhohateseddie — We all know you weren’t hugged as a kid. Stop yelling it over the loud speaker.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 9:36 pm

Michael Bennett, we all know you didn’t have a father, stop using Eddie to gain approval.
Michael Bennett Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 9:44 pm

sunsfanwhohateseddie — we all know that you would never show up at the bank because Eddie would act like YOUR father and spank you.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 9:50 pm

Michael Bennett, yeah I wouldn’t want to be spanked by a 6′7 man, who would want to….wait I guess you would, especially by Eddie.
David Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 10:06 pm

Paul, one Spurs fan to another — aren’t you looking forward to the Rodeo Road Trip?
Michael Bennett Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 10:07 pm

sunsfanwhohateseddie — You don’t want to be spanked by a “6′7 man”, but you DO want to be spanked by a man. You admitted it for everyone to see.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 10:28 pm

That’s a good one Michael. How creative, you seriously disappointed me on that one. What are you six????? LOL
Jason Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 11:58 pm

Eddie, how badly do you think you would have played against someone like Bruce Bowen? I didn’t see you play, but if you were really one-dimensional, then he would have eaten you alive.
Jason Said,

January 21, 2008 @ 11:59 pm

Wait, is this a board for gay people? Cause all I see are comments about guys spanking each other. I’m getting off.
Paul Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 12:15 am

LeBron is in no way “by far” the best player in the NBA man. Jesus &$%^&*@ Christ, you asked for my opinion, and I gave it. Just because you don’t agree with it, it doesn’t make me wrong. Ask most NBA experts, they will tell you that Kobe is the best player in the game right now. Man, you’re just looking to argue. Had you asked who the best player ever was, I would’ve said Jordan, and you would have disagreed and probably called me an idiot because “Magic was the best ever. You’re effin’ blind man.” Something along those lines.

Get a goddamn life Michael, seriously. It doesn’t matter that I’m somewhat drunk right now, the fact is, you need a life. If your crowning achievment is being accepted by a guy who was more one dimensional than Kyle Korver, then you MIGHT want to re-think your priorities in life. Grow up and enough with this b.s. man. I’ve no desire to argue with a person I will never meet. It’s pathetic, much the Chicago Bulls as a team.
Paul Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 12:17 am

Michael, you think only 6 year olds use the term “dumb?” Get out of your basement for than 5 minutes. Really, some sunlight might help.
Paul Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 12:19 am

Oh, and you know you have no life when….. you’ve officially “established yourself on a message board” and you’re PROUD OF IT! Bravo! Michael Bennett everyone!
Paul Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 12:27 am

Michael, no more arguing man. Seriously, cut the crap. If you want to claim you’ve “won” then by all means, think that. No one wins in online arguments. Stroke your ego (and that other, tiny thing you have) and believe you’re king $#!* no one cares man. sunsfanwhohateseddie, ignore that fool so that he and his dad can have some time to bond. What it all comes down to is, Joakim Noah had every right to get in Ben Wallace’s face.

A great quote from “Remember The Titans”:

“Attitude reflects leadership.” If the Bulls had proper leadership, Wallace would never have goofed off like that and therefore, not given Noah any reason to yell at him.
Calvin O Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 12:51 am

Will every person who thinks M Bennett is a moron write a one line post, just so we can get a tally? I’ll start.

M Bennett is a moron.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 12:58 am

M Bennett is a moron
Anthony Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 1:07 am

Billy Madison is a masterpiece of a film. It’s better than any movie done by Martin Scorcese, Majid Majidi, Orson Welles, or Zhang Yimou.

Just Kidding.

Mike Bennett is a moron. And a blowhard.
Calvin O Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 1:09 am

Keep up the good work people. This is what a democracy is all about.
Joris Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 2:12 am

M Bennett is a moron.
Eddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 2:53 am

M. Bennett is smart and crafty——-you know why? because he controls you guys like puppets. You guys are just Spur fans and Suns haters so you will never agree with anything i write.

i have been dormant on the Mavs and Spurs, but i will spring soon with an article if the Spurs continue their 0-7 stretch against winning teams

I write articles that no writer would dare to write, if anything you sillies should like it.

Did anyone know i won 6th man in 89 while scoring 21 points a game in 28 minutes –lol

Michael—-Kobe is the best and you know it—lol

paul, Suns fake fan,Calvin and Joris —-no voting here fight your battle if you are man enough. I Love it.
Eddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 2:58 am

article tomorrow on the Hornets.
Joris Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 3:10 am

Actually I can’t bear the Spurs, perhaps cause I’m French and can’t stand Parker who is a little too full of himself like hum, you ?

Actually I like the Suns (and a few other teams too) but I’m in no case a fanatic so it’ll not change my life if they never win a title.

And Eddie you’re quite pathetic with your “various achievements” in each comment like the motive was to anger us. In fact your true motive is about talking about you, quite self-centered man and taking your readers for dumbs (dedicace to Micky the ass licker or whatever you tell in american, for me he is a suceur de boules, gros bouffon ou pauvre type, whatever he prefers).
Eddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 3:36 am

Joris

great post! look forward to your next great one. good job!

Joris did you know i shot 48 percent for my career and most were jumpshots. lol
Eddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 3:38 am

Ok—enough of this post. thanks to everyone for the contribution. i never take anything personal.
Calvin O Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 4:22 am

Eddie– you truly are a stupid jock. bennett is not “crafty”– he’s an idiot who gets intelligent people annoyed by being so damned stupid. Go ahead and write something cynical about the Spurs. Their 4 nba titles are proof positive that your silly blog is sad and biased and that you, like Bennett, are a moron.
Calvin O Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 4:25 am

it’s cute the way you end sentences with “lol’ just like a 12 year old girl! Good work Eddie! Your Moustache makes the construction worker from the Village People so very jealous! Tell us some more about your accomplishments! thank you!
Rashidi Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 5:56 am

LOL am I the only one that caught the part where he called ADAM SANDLER one of today’s best actors?

And you expect us to take you seriously when you call LeBron better than Kobe?
Paul Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 8:41 am

So agreeing with Eddie makes a person “smart and crafty?” Well then, I can see why M Bennett so desperately seeks your attention
Paul Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 8:44 am

Eddie, I’m guessing your article on the Hornets will be about how Chris Paul lacks leadership qualities. You think it takes a man to fight a battle on here Eddie? What type of life do you have exactly? This is just a forum, so grow up.
Lupe Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 9:40 am

Wow, I read this article late due to things IRL, and it seems to have blown up big time. I think in regards to Jaokim Noah “Attitude reflects Leadership.” Is Noah right to act out? No. But if he was on a team like Boston with Pierce, and Garnett I severely doubt he’d act out. Ben Wallace by no means is a leader. I’ll give him credit for being a workhorse, being a gym rat, but he seems to always clash with his coaches such as Flip Saunders, and Scott Skiles.

In regards to who is the best player, I have to go with Kobe. I’ll admit Lebron has gotten better, he’s jumpshot is more steady than it was when he was in the finals, and his defense has improved. There is one key difference between them, and that is that Kobe is a closer. Lebron’s killer instinct is by no means anywhere near Kobe’s, and Kobe is still more of a two-player than Lebron. Though Lebron has better stats, that doesn’t prove everything. I remember Miles called Michael out pretty well on that one a few months ago(in case you ask, yes I have eidetic memory) in regards to defense/steals(Kidd to AI comparison).

Also, in regards to Adam Sandler being a good actor; you are joking right!? Tom Hanks has played an adult-child in Big, slow-witted Forrest Gump, and an immigrant stuck in the U.S. in The Terminal. I know that is an Oscar winning legend I picked. I’ll use another example, Johnny Depp, he’s portfolio is just as diverse despite not winning an Oscar. Jack Sparrow, Sweeney Todd, Willy Wonka, Edward Scissor-hands, Gilbert Grape, etc. share no similarity at all. That’s what a good actor is, someone willing to act in various different roles w/o falling back to the same stick. Adam’s characters are always similar excluding Water Boy, and Reign Over Me with Don Cheadle(had to mention this guy, he’s also up there with Johnny and Tom). I don’t mean to discredit him since he does produce a good film every once in a while but he’s too much of a one trick pony right now. At least his acting is nowhere near as horrendous as Vince Vaughn who can’t seem to be anyone besides Vince Vaughn in all films(..err, forgot Psycho, but the remake was horrible ).

One final thing, you guys should quit being so catty/personal. If you won’t say something in real life; don’t do do it here. I’m looking forward to your Hornets article Eddie, and who do you pick as All-stars for the upcoming game? Well, I’ve said my peace, no point in arguing what I said since all of it is true. Laters!
fred Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 10:05 am

great article eddie.

joakim’s loud mouth and clowning only make the bulls look foolish.

this guy needs to do something in this league before he starts ripping on champions. there might be laughing on the bench, but when your a league dormat not even half way through the season, you’ve got to trust the veterans know how to handle it.

geeez, the guy was on a stacked team in the ncaa, the kid is spoiled, what does he know about being a leader?

further demise of the bulls

this guy is lame,
BullsNut Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 10:09 am

“”"”I write articles that no writer would dare to write, if anything you sillies should like it.”"”"”

Eddie:
You are a terrific writer and a terrific person. Keep it up Eddie. You are the best at what you do!
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 12:09 pm

Eddie you are exactly why even Barkley says he can’t stand listening to local Suns broadcast..you guys are homers. Even I, as a REAL Suns fan, know that once those damn spurs go on that dang Rodeo trip they will turn it on. Everyone was writing them off last year at this time saying they were too old and too unathletic for the Suns and Mavs. Everyone in the West should expect to go through San Antonio before heading to the Finals, they got 4 titles to back it up. 0-7 stretch against winning teams…big whoop, again this team has championship experience and will be there at the end. Wishful and foolish thinking otherwise. And you expect us to take you serious with that kind of comments….maybe you can throw out another minuscule achievement.
Kingsblade Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 12:58 pm

Local broadcasts supposed to be homers. Every team in every sport that has a broadcast will feature homers.

….and quit arguing on behalf of the Spurs and allow some of the rest of us our wishful thinking.
Eddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 1:12 pm

Kingsblade

Thank you. He has a problem with someone saying the blog has reached it’s end.

The hot Hornets are next!
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 1:19 pm

Eddie, why do you keep reading then???
Eddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 1:20 pm

Kingsblade

It’s hard explaining to someone who is a Spurs fan disguising himself as a Suns Fan.
sunsfanwhohateseddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 1:23 pm

hahaha I love it, Eddie can’t deal with an actual Suns fan who dislikes him so he calls him a wanna be Suns fan. Gooooood oneeeeee!
Carvin Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 1:47 pm

The NBA player that seem to get this right about Noah is Barkley.
I get tired of old ex-nba player talking about what rituals during their playing day. Noah is a high energy player to make up for unrefined skills. He has 2 NCAA championships as a result of that. Becuase the BULLS don’ have an older player with balls or talent to lead the team, somebody had to have the nerve to say something. As for Wallace and Adrian Griffin who doesn’t even belong in the NBA, when did they earn the right to chastise anybody. The only time Wallace looks like he might be earning that huge check is when he plays Detroit. So when a player voices his displeasure over losing that’s a good thing. It when vets continue to lose games and don’t show any pride, they’re the ones who should be singled out. So to Eddie shut up this is a new era like it or not.
Carvin Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 2:00 pm

Eddie

I read a statement about every player having heart. I beg to differ.
I watch Ben Wallace and the way he shoots free throw and I thing back to Buck Williams and he was a terrible shooter early on BUT he displayed heart and pride and worked on he shooting and as you know he became a decent shooter at the line and from the field.
Shaq is another heartless player, this is profession full time.
Jason Kidd was another example. I watched you and other players lke Terry Cummings who had extended careers and the primary reason was shooting skills. As for the Bulls they continue to make the same mistake they made with Eddie Curry and Tyson; no big man coach to work with them. Noah shoots the balls like he’s bowling (cuffing), it’s a simple problem that can be changed.

It makes me wonder what in the world are all these assistants coaches doing?
Paul Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 2:14 pm

You never hear Barkley mention his accomplishments whenever somebody disagrees with him. He has every right to brag, but he knows there’s no point because everyone knows he was one of the best players ever. He doesn’t have to toss out any of his accomplishments just to feel vindicated.

It doesn’t matter what you accomplished in your life, if you say something stupid, you’re going to hear about it.

Leave it to Eddie to hop on the Hornets bandwagon. I would to if I didn’t have a life.
Eddie Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 3:22 pm

Barkley is a good friend of mine. he toots his horn to me all the time. he taught me.

by the way did you know i once scored 38 on doctor J—–He had 24—–lol
Shaun Norden Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 3:22 pm

ha ha this is classic

http://nbanews.blogspot.com
Bullshit Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 3:25 pm

The truth will always hurt. If the Bulls were a good team and have good leadership then this won’t happen. Don’t blame on the messenger Eddie. Noah is trying to get his teammate to have a winning mentality. And remember He’s a winner and it’s hard for a winner to be surround by player with loser mentality. About big ben pay his due already. That’s bullshit eddie. He got paid the most on that team and should be a better leader and role model so noah will have someone look up to. If you going to blame anyone, blame on the veterans on the bulls that’s not doing a good job of leading the team.
Eddie I respect your opinion but your just too old school. You need to change and adapt to new culture and realize new thinking isn’t bad at all. Your perception about the NBA culture isn’t the same as when you’re a rookie. My friend Brandon Roy is the leader of the blazers and is he’s not the oldest or a seasons-vet. He is well-respected because of hard work and personality. Leaders led and followers follow and it doesn’t take to age to do so. You either have or you don’t and most of the player on the bulls team don’t have it except Noah.
dude Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 5:17 pm

eddie once again you make yourself look stupid! you sound like my grand dad speaking bout WW2, plus do you really know who Jo Noah really is, what kind of person he is, what kind of education he received? No of course, you are stuck on “i eddie i play in this league for X years blah blah blah… Maybe you can’t stand the fact that a NBA rookie can be EDUCATED, SMART,and not SUBMISSIVE like you were, give us a break with your donuts!!!! TP did that in San Antonio and it didn’t make him a better player nor person!!!! NOAH’s father was the best tennis player ever in france, he was a not so talented player but the best fighter of his era, not exactly like you i know, i was the french Jimmy Connors in his days… He never shut his mouth, worked like an horse on humanitarian projects afeter he retired, and sure did teach his son strong values about commitment and effort, regardless of the money you make with it… I know it must be surprising in the NBA world but still very respectable don’t you think? More respectable to me than an overpaid Ben Wallace or a Me Myself and my ball Ben Gordon who probably don’t even know how to spell L-E-A-D-E-R-S-H-I-P
DJHOTT Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 6:44 pm

parker will average 30 in the finals vs nash
amare will foul out 2 games, and get ted out in another
the suns are the best offensive team hands down
its the defense that isnt in the top 10
spurs go offense 5th defense 2nd

suns trade -marion,b.skinner,and atls pick for yao ming
Rashidi Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 6:55 pm

Did you know Eddie Johnson never won a championship because of his ego?
qtlaw Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 8:53 pm

Shut up and what? Learn how to lose?

If Eddie and the rest of the Bulls want to tune out Noah? Fine. Great. That’s your right.

But what’s great about America is we let ideas be spoken then decide whether to give it credence or not.

If what Noah said is stupid or ridiculous, it will be easily dismissed.

What’s to be afraid of?

Censorship is merely being afraid of the truth.
BullsNut Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 11:19 pm

Did you know that your last 6 or 7 seasons were meaningless? Did you also know that you do in fact take things personal or else you would not respond to us. You let it get to you as most normal people could admit that things get to them to some degree, but no not you huh? Hey your last six or seven seasons were typical of an aight player that is slowly descending in skill. Those years are so forgettable. Hey Eddie I mean dikembe descending johnson. I’m sure sir Charles is a good friend keep telling yourself that.
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 22, 2008 @ 11:46 pm

Eddie,
you said very rightfully that no one should compare Noah to Lebron and Melo but you are doing exactly the same thing. How in the world could you put yourself in the same sentence than JULIUS ERVING saying that you scored 38 and him 24.
PLEASE, on that one you should definitely SHUT UP
Justin Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 12:08 am

honestly, I dont get this whole don’t talk because your a rook thing. every team needs a leader. this bulls team is in disarray and doesnt have one. noah wants to win, players over there SHOULD voice discontents, and in doing that he shows good team leadership skills and that he can one day be a key component of a championship contender. u got ben wallace LAUGHING on the sidelines when his squad is getting his but kicked. and u got guys like hinrich quitting on their coach. it’s not acceptable. someone has to saY it, and why not noah. all players are equal on a team, rooks and veterans alike. unless rook daniel gibson didnt nail the experienced pistons in the coffin last year…oh wait he did. u think lebron hazed him and made him buy donuts? no, he filled him with confidence. thats what a rook’s teammates and team leaders need to do. noah is write to complain about tHE FACT that no1 on his team seems to care.
Eddie Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 2:31 am

i gave Doc 38. that made my year. dont hate. did you know i was the oldest player at 39 years old to score 31 in a playoff game —conference finals 1997-98. lol
Eddie Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 2:35 am

BullsNut
chuck is a good friend, look at the houston rockets team picture silly boy. 1997 to 2000. please shut up.
KOLY TENGUELA Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 3:52 am

No hate. Never. I just like it more when you say things that way “i gave Doc 38. that made my year” than this one “i scored 38 on doctor J”.
Vic Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 9:04 am

I still don’t think Eddie is right about Noah, however to chastise him for continuing to correspond is ridiculous. Accountability and availability are what make an argument constructive. To imply that the writers who throw some crap down on paper and never look back are somehow more professional is callow. Whether or not any of us agree with Eddie the fact that he responds and interacts with the people who write here show that he at least respects the opinions of those who read his work, unlike most of the mush-mouthed narcissists out there that believe they are beyond reproach.
Rashidi Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 10:32 am

Winners aren’t concerned about personal stats.
David Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 10:49 am

Joris, pour MB je dirais tous les trois…et tu peux ajouter vieux con, si t’as envie
Rashidi Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 10:49 am

LMAO I just did some research

Julius Erving was 13-1 against Eddie Johnson from Eddie’s rookie year in 80-81 to Dr. J’s retirement after 86-87. The one win Eddie’s team had (3/20/85) was a one point victory (118-117).

So Eddie, which of these games was the 38 pointer? Was it the game you lost by 20 or the game you lost by 30?
weaponjay Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 11:12 am

hey Eddie have you counted how many players you are guarding who scored more than you in a game??? What you did against Dr J is just a fluke and here you are many years later still bragging about it.

Do you think we will hear from any former player that “he scored more than Eddie Johnson in a game”??? I dont think so coz you are not that special, hehehe!!!
Eddie Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 11:59 am

Rashidi

it was the game we won—good research. i smoked them. by the way it was barkleys rookie season—he got some of that 38 too. lol
Eddie Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 12:03 pm

weaponjay

you sound silly when i am listed 36th all time. you don’t think i played an NBA schedule. get real——–i routinely gave the Bulls numbers too—look that up Rashidi lol

if you guys shut up i will release the Hornet article.
Rashidi Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 12:29 pm

I dont know why you call it fanmail when people want to email you.
Eddie if you were so good, who started ahead of you?
36th all time? you werent inducted in the top 50 ceremony.
BullsNut Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 12:44 pm

Eddie how about an article about Tyson Chandler and his transformation and why it didnt work out with Bulls (Skiles fault? Being in a big city? Or was it just a natural process and unlucky for Bulls)?

Tyson Chandler (C)
Lemarcus Alridge (PF) (no Thomas!)
Deng (SG)—Bulls wanted Deng in duol role
Noc (SF)
Hinrich (PF)
Gordon (6th)

Would Roy or Gay have been just as good in CHI as they are now?
BullsNut Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 12:46 pm

pg for Hinrich my bad
Eddie Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 1:01 pm

BullsNut

i thought about writing a article just about Tyson, but i dont he deserves it just yet, but i give him a ton of credit in the article.
Eddie Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 1:01 pm

think
Jersey Girl Said,

January 23, 2008 @ 2:42 pm

JoeKim WAHKEEM Whatever the hell your name is…you are a BUM…I saw your workouts and can’t believe you were even chosen that high in the draft. He is arrogant, always has been and he’s an idiot.
Richieade Said,

January 24, 2008 @ 4:59 am

If you have ever played organised sport at any level then you know everybody is concern about their stats, they might not say it publicly but most are!

If I score 2 points over a legend, you better believe I will the tell the world about!!!!

Eddie could u please post the new article.
Manila Said,

January 24, 2008 @ 11:10 am

See latest bulls vs. pacers and compare rook stats vs. vet.

The rook maybe arrogant but are we all not used to that? Most nba stars are. Shaq and Barkley will not be as entertaining in and out of the court if they have G. Hill’s disposition. I think it’s very entertaining for us fans to see a rook tell a vet not to clown around specially when you are expected to be a leader, and that’s excluding the fact that you are the highest paid player on the team.

I do miss the old Beast flexing his biceps, but for now, im playing the rook. Fans will chant more playing time for Noah and some vets will complain. We’ll see more bashing in this thread.
Ron Said,

January 31, 2008 @ 9:27 am

All of the great ones know from the beginning when to speak and when to shut up. Noah grew up as a privileged child being the son of a star athlete. So, I don’t think he’s ever been told or taught how to shut his mouth.

All of his antics in college were “cute” back then. But, that was college, and that was a boy’s game. This is the NBA - a man’s game. Of the four Florida players from last year’s Championship team that made it to the NBA, only Green plays less minutes than Noah. That alone is telling.

Two things this kid could do to better himself - shut up, and grow up!
Ovais Said,

February 6, 2008 @ 4:57 pm

As usual, Eddie tells it like it is. For Noah’s sake, I can only hope someone gives him a copy of this article. It will elevate him as a player and as a teammate, and maybe keep him in the league longer.
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patty Said,

March 3, 2008 @ 11:34 am

I think peple are bieng bogus cause Joakim has the right to say whatever he wants (as long as he ain’t hurting anyone.) He ISN’T bieng bad or hating so I think he shouldn’t shut up. If people give him a chance he can be pretty cool. Some of you famous people got to know a person before you know them!
patty Said,

March 3, 2008 @ 11:39 am

I think peple are bieng bogus cause Joakim has the right to say whatever he wants (as long as he ain’t hurting anyone.) He ISN’T bieng bad or hating so I think he shouldn’t shut up. If people give him a chance he can be pretty cool. Some of you famous people got to know a person before you judge them! GO JOAKIM NOAH! People shouldn’t care what other people say.
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Joakim Noah, please shut up

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