Chicago Bulls Notes, Quotes 2008-06-30

--Shortly after adding guard Derrick Rose to an already crowded backcourt, general manager John Paxson put the brakes on calls for a roster shakeup. Paxson has said he doesn't want to make any major changes until the contract status of restricted free agents Luol Deng and Ben Gordon is settled. Of course, one player among Gordon, Kirk Hinrich or Larry Hughes figures to depart before opening night.

"We're not going to rush into that because, for example, I think Kirk Hinrich can play very effectively with Derrick Rose," Paxson said. "I think Ben Gordon can play very effectively with Derrick Rose. I think Thabo (Sefolosha) can. We have Larry Hughes as well."

--In the days after the draft, the Bulls were still working to finalize their coaching staff. A top priority is hiring an experienced head coach to assist Vinny Del Negro, who took the job with no coaching experience. Del Harris and Bernie Bickerstaff were the leading candidates, and it's conceivable both could get offers. The Bulls also interviewed Bob Hill and Paul Westphal. Mike Wilhelm is expected to stay in his role of advance scout, while holdovers Pete Myers and Ron Adams are possibilities to remain on the bench.

QUOTE TO NOTE: "This isn't going to be Derrick coming in the first day and everything being great. He's going to take time." -- General manager John Paxson after the Bulls selected 19-year-old point guard Derrick Rose with the first pick of the draft.

Author: Fox Sports

Author's Website: http://www.foxsports.com

Added: June 30, 2008