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Season Review: Joakim Noah
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AP/Elise Amendola
Although the talk of Noah this postseason has been about what he's done since the Bulls season has ended, quietly he did all the dirty work for the Bulls and was one of the playoffs top rebounder's at 13.1 per game during the seven game series with the Boston Celtics.
He worked the hardest out of any player during the season.
If you're thinking I'm nuts, consider the fact that during the beginning of the season, Noah was out of shape and even begged coach Vinny Del Negro to be pulled from games because he didn't have his legs yet.
After a slow start, his points and rebound numbers picked up considerably.
One reason for this is because he played to his strengths. Using his length and activity around the rim to keep possessions alive and also tipping in loose balls. He also learned where to be and how to roll to the basket with all the attention the Bulls backcourt received.
His season totals of 6.7 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 1.4 bpg were a slight improvement from his rookie numbers of 6.6, 5.6 and 0.9.
After his rookie season, I did predict he would average a double-double this season and his numbers in the postseason justified that statement.
Picking up his play to the tune of 10.1 ppg, 13.1 rpg 2.1 bpg, Noah has set the tone for what could be a breakout year next season.
As you've seen, he is enjoying his off season thus far, but he knows he can't come into next year without being in shape and with Derrick Rose at the helm of the offense, he'll continue to get easy looks at the basket.
If he develops some moves to compliment his activity around the rim, the Bulls offense becomes that better.
After all the critiques were calling for a trade this season, Noah continued to work and finished strong.
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