Coaching Vacancy

[Admiral]

The Bulls, who remain very much interested in D'Antoni, have yet to extend him a contract offer. A source close to the team's search said GM John Paxson is sticking to his plan and not worrying about how much time it takes for the process to play out -- even if a bona fide candidate such as D'Antoni is hired elsewhere while Paxson is interviewing others.

Chicago Sun-Times

A league insider believes the Bulls are comfortable choosing between D'Antoni and Avery Johnson, two former NBA coach of the year winners.

If neither works out, they'll likely wait to talk to Boston assistant Tom Thibodeau and Detroit assistant Michael Curry, who are both busy with the playoffs. Thibodeau has been mentioned as a possible replacement for D'Antoni in Phoenix.

Arlington Heights Daily Herald

[Admiral]

Befitting his law background, Jerry Reinsdorf pegged matters to the minute, saying he's still waiting for Mike D'Antoni to return his call placed at 10:05 a.m. Pacific Standard Time on Saturday.

"I'm disappointed in him," Reinsdorf said. "I don't know what else we could've done. He chose to go to New York knowing there was a good chance we would make him an offer. If he had really wanted to be in Chicago, he would've waited. Instead, he misled us. It's not the end of the world, but it is somewhat rude."

The Chicago Tribune

[Admiral]

The Bulls still intend to talk with Avery Johnson to gauge his interest in being their next coach. As of Monday, however, Johnson's representatives had yet to reschedule an interview with Bulls general manager John Paxson, who postponed their original meeting last week.

The Bulls also are awaiting permission from some playoff teams, including the Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons, to talk with assistant coaches who could be candidates.

Chicago Sun-Times

[Admiral]

A source close to one player felt Johnson would be an acceptable alternative to D'Antoni, while another voiced concerns about Johnson's reputation for calling plays most every offensive possession. Some Bulls grew tired of that practice with former coach Scott Skiles.

Arlington Heights Daily Herald