Chicago Bulls: Where And How Did It Go Wrong For The Bulls?

False Expectations

Second, Hoiberg was falsely painted as the next Brad Stevens. In five years he brought the Cyclones from the bottom of the Big 12 to tied for second. But his teams only improved by two wins from year two to year five. And they were 4-4 in the NCAA Tournament despite comfortable seeds.

Now Fred couldn’t control underserved expectations, but he could have altered his coaching style. While other coaches ride officials’ coattails, Fred hardly mutters at missed calls. Doc Rivers would commit murder if Chris Paul ever got bludgeoned like Derrick Rose does without repercussion.

There were rumors of Fred’s sternness at practice, but that behavior never manifested itself on the court. Maybe it was the recent aorta surgery. Maybe that’s just who Fred is. Either way, it didn’t work, especially after five years of drill sergeant Tom Thibedou scowling along the sidelines.

Next: Management