By KC Johnson (Chicago Tribune)Vinny Del Negro arrived at the Berto Center Wednesday to do what he does — go to work.
Though his dismissal as Bulls coach is considered merely a formality, likely to occur next week after annual organizational meetings with team Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, Del Negro met with his staff, organized season-end evaluations, put his blinders on.
As senior vice president John Paxson and general manager Gar Forman conducted player exit meetings, the public debate raged on the merits of Del Negro's two-season tenure, which produced an 82-82 regular-season mark and a 4-8 mark in consecutive playoff appearances.
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Del Negro wasn't speaking publicly to reporters Wednesday, but he did tell Bulls broadcaster Chuck Swirsky on bulls.com the speculation about his status is "unfortunate, but my record speaks for itself."
With Del Negro's highly likely dismissal delayed, players were left in the awkward position of answering whether or not he should be retained. They alternated between showing respect for his positive demeanor to tepid support, delicately walking a fine line.