[Bryan88]

So what does everyone think of this move?


Doug Collins expected to be next Bulls coach -- ChicagoSports.com

Six weeks ago Thursday, shortly after firing interim coach Jim Boylan, general manager John Paxson talked about hiring someone who passionately resonated with players and fans.

How about Doug Collins?

Sources confirmed the former Bulls coach is expected to become the new Bulls coach. Collins coached the Bulls from 1986-89 and, as recently as two weeks ago, talked about not wanting to leave his TNT broadcasting job and the family life it afforded him.

But Collins' extremely close relationship with Paxson, friendship with team Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf (who fired Collins) and the Bulls winning the draft lottery have changed his mind, sources said.

KTAR-620 AM in Phoenix, which is the Suns' flagship station, first reported the story.

One of the many younger coaches Paxson also has interviewed is expected to land on Collins' staff.

Paxson suggested hiring Collins as an assistant to then-coach Bill Cartwright in 2003. Cartwright declined.

Paxson, according to sources, first contacted Collins about the job shortly after firing Boylan. At that time, Collins gave indications he didn't want to return to coaching.

Collins, known for his fiery, passionate demeanor on the sidelines, was fired in 1989 after taking the Bulls to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time in 13 years. The Benton, Ill., native, who starred at Illinois State, later coached the Pistons and Wizards.

[Bryan88]

Confirmed on ESPN as well.

ESPN - Collins returning to Bulls as head coach - NBA

[Lefty Noob]

Interesting. Well, it's a young team that could probably benefit from a veteran coach like Collins. It'll be interesting to see how it plays out.

[bears9]

I don't know, I was really liking the idea of hiring Ty Corbin from Utah, but I can live with Doug Collins

[Be Da Bear]

I don't like the move at all. When he was with Washington and had MJ on the team, it seemed the players didn't respect him, and his coaching didn't carry any weight with the team. Even if you know the game, the game and the players pass you by. The Bulls are taking a BIG step back IMO if this holds true.