Bulls Release Mike James To Clear Roster Spot
By Tim Bearden in News on Jan 28, 2012 8:00PM
At first glance it would appear the release of reserve point guard Mike James on Saturday would show the growing confidence the Bulls have in Derrick Rose and C.J. Watson, but is there more to the story?
The announcement comes after the Bulls edged out the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night and forward Luol Deng missed three straight games due to a sprained wrist. Forward Rip Hamilton has also struggled with injuries all season. It's been widely speculated that the Bulls have been seeking a big man with a significant defensive presence, which is coach Tom Thibodeau's primary strategic focus, but the Bulls hadn't done anything except hint at the possibility until now.
Before the season began, the thought crossed the mind of General Manager Gar Forman, as well as reporters, thinking Magic center Dwight Howard could be courted for the position. When the Bulls didn't interview Howard prior to the start of the season, speculation that the team was looking to increase its height advantage subsided. Then it happened.
The Tribune reported Saturday morning that Forman has had conversations with Memphis Grizzlies power forward Leon Powe and Charlotte Bobcats center Joel Przybilla.
If the Bulls were to acquire Przybilla, it would make him the tallest player on the team at 7'1". Current centers Joakim Noah and Omer Asik are 6'11" and 7'0" respectively. Last season Przybilla played with Charlotte and Portland and averaged 55.5 percent from the field, but only 4.35 rebounds.
The Bulls aren't the only organization speaking with Przybilla though. Acting Portland Trailblazers General Manager Chad Buchanan keeps in touch with the center. The team recently had injury trouble with Marcus Camby, their man in the middle, and speculation mounted they may seek to acquire Przybilla again, but no offers have been reported.
The release of James shows the Bulls are serious about winning and want a complete team. James scored nine points and 10 assists in his last game with the Bulls against Charlotte last Saturday. To any other team that would show great promise, but for the Bulls it shows the team's great depth.