Can’t hate on Joakim Noah

on 05 2, 2009

So no one likes this kid out of Florida. Many believe his antics are over the top. Basically he’s a complete toolbag. But Joakim is playing almost 40 minutes per game this playoff series, which is number 1 for centers this postseason, while scoring 11 ppg this series. He also distributes the ball well creating 2.4 apg. Maybe his best asset this series is his ability to hit the boards with 12.4 rpg, which is third in the league this postseason. Oh and by the way, he’s among lead leaders during these playoffs with 2.4 blocks per game this series. Joakim is playing the best basketball of his career this postseason putting the right kind of attention on him for once. His intensity incites energy which is exactly what is propelling these young Bulls in contention with the defending champion Boston Celtics.

Noah is proving to be a matchup problem for the Boston big men. He is too athletic for Perkins while being too long and athletic for the more stout Big Baby and Powe. Joakim Noah may not win any popularity votes but he will earn your respect through outstanding play on the court. Despite amassing only 9 points in the game 6 win against the Celtics, Noah stole Paul Pierces pass and then went coast-to-coast for the old fashioned three-point play that coincidentally also disqualified Pierce from the game. Without Pierce’s closing capability the torch was handed to the capable Ray Allen to carry his team offensively. Allen put up a worthy effort but came up just short.

Joakim Noah has provided a huge boost for this young Bulls team. This Chicago team has not only brought the defending champion Boston Celtics to a game 7, but proved their status as a legit playoff team. Despite gaining valuable playoff experience and confidence, the Chicago Bulls are still a few years from becoming a legitimate contender. Noah is a part of a young nucleus that you should keep on your radar, it will be interesting to see their growth over these next few years optimizes their talent.

Other awesome content to check out: