The Big Red Bus - Episode 183 - Fun Bad or Fun Mediocre

The Big Red Bus: A Chicago Bulls Podcast

See Red Fred and the Podfather Doug Thonus address a variety of Pre Preseason Questions.

Storytime: See Red Fred describes an incident that occurred before a battle with Little People Wrestlers. It was discussed at a wedding last Sunday. Memories about a past performance incident involving sound checks and a confrontation with a fan were forgotten.

• Incident Details:

  • Sound Check: SRF played "Californication" by Red Hot Chili Peppers during sound checks to set levels.
  • Fan Confrontation:

• Relevance to Current Season:

  • Comparison between past performance struggles and the current team rebuild.
  • Emphasizes the emotional and mental challenges of team rebuilding periods.

• Doug Thonus Full Rebuild vs. Controlled Dip:

  • Full Rebuild Approach:

    • Strategy: Trade valuable players to accumulate multiple first-round draft picks.
    • Historical Reference:
    • Pros and Cons:

  • Controlled Dip Approach:

    • Strategy: Slight reduction in wins to integrate young players without over-committing to a full rebuild.
    • Pros and Cons:

• Analytical Views:

  • Both strategies have low probabilities of success due to reliance on multiple factors aligning, including player development and draft luck.
  • Execution by the front office is critical but currently lacking confidence.

• Current Front Office Evaluation:

  • Front office lacks the vision and execution capability to implement successful rebuilding strategies.
  • Decisions appear reactionary rather than planned and strategic.

• Key Players Discussed:

  • Vooch:

    • Criticized for being overpaid relative to his performance.
    • Contract extension viewed negatively due to maintenance of high salary without correspondingly high performance.

  • DeMar DeRozan:

    • Recent trade criticized as a poor fit for the team’s strategy.

  • Patrick Williams:

    • Signed to a contract that appears unfavorable compared to peers.
    • Injured, impacting his readiness for the season.

  • Torrey Craig:

    • Signed via a player option, maintaining team’s ability to compete.
    • Balancing veteran presence with developing young talent.

  • Josh Giddey:

    • Discussed extensively regarding potential and contract expectations.
    • Debate on fair market value and role within the team.

• Contract Negotiations:

  • Josh Giddey:

    • See Red Fred & Doug Thonus discuss his appropriate salary based on performance.
    • Agreement on a ceiling of around $20 million annually.
    • Concerns about overpaying if performance doesn’t meet expectations.

  • Patrick Williams:

    • Concerns about the timing and terms of his contract given injury history.

• Josh Giddey:

  • Strengths:

    • Excellent rebounder and passer.
    • Potential to develop into a significant playmaker with strength improvements.

  • Weaknesses:

    • Currently lacks strength necessary to maximize potential in the paint.
    • Inconsistent efficiency and defensive capabilities.

  • Contract Discussion:

    • Suggested market value around $20 million.
    • Risks associated with overpaying without guaranteed performance improvement.

• Rebranding Concepts:

  • "Fun Bad":

    • Acknowledges the team's entertaining but subpar performance.
    • Emphasizes young players show growth with a focus on entertaining play.

  • "Fun Mediocre" or "Fun Average":

    • Alternative branding ideas reflecting the team's balanced outlook between competition and entertainment.

• Team Expectations:

  • Performance Goals:

    • Likely outcome cited as around 30-win season.
    • Possibility of being a "fun bad" or "fun mediocre" team with moments of excitement.

  • Player Development:

    • Focus on developing young talent like Josh Giddey.
    • Potential for entertaining playstyles contributing to highlight-worthy moments.

• Final Sentiments:

  • Optimism about the team being more enjoyable to watch despite challenges.
  • Encouragement for listeners to continue supporting and following team developments.

• Listener Engagement:

  • Encourage listeners to leave positive reviews on iTunes and Amazon.