The NBA Free Agency rumors continue and the Chicago Bulls will end their disappointing season in April, an unfamiliar scenario for Joakim Noah.
The Frenchman became the odd man out for the Bulls following the coaching change from Tom Thibodeau to Fred Hoiberg. There were also calls for Noah's ouster from the fans, as in the case of this Blog A Bull post before the trade deadline.
The Chicago front office, true to their tradition, did not make any major trades within the season. Now, Noah is a free agent and the Bulls could lose him without any return. Unless they decide to keep him, as KC Johnson of the Chicago Tribune implied.
Johnson noted that Noah has deep ties with Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf.
"Though front-office meetings have yet to finalize the Bulls' Plan A for this offseason, there is strong internal desire to re-sign Noah on a short-term deal," Johnson wrote. "Noah long has been a favorite player and ambassador of Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf. Executive vice president John Paxson drafted Noah, and their bond is genuine."
However, the challenge is easier said than done as Noah has real issues with Hoiberg.
"It will take work, not to mention money, to win back Noah, who disliked the false story Fred Hoiberg spread at the start of the season that he volunteered to come off the bench. He then disliked playing just 20 minutes per game and not finishing them more," Johnson confirmed.
Still, Noah showed concern for the team in the team meeting expressing his disappointment with Jimmy Butler and Derrick Rose with their passive stance.
Noah has real suitors despite this season's disappointing season. He has built a reputation around the league as one of the best defensive centers. But he is far from a one-dimensional player.
Before Tom Thibodeau left the team, he has used Noah as a "point center" using his passing skills to make up for the absence of Derrick Rose and the Bulls' lack of point guard options.
This is why teams like the Dallas Mavericks and New York Knicks have been linked to Noah. Aside from his skills on the court, his leadership and passion is something both teams need. This is also the reason why the Bulls suddenly balked at the idea of losing Noah.
Is it too late for the Bulls to keep him in the fold?