Gibson not playing like a rookie

In general, the Bulls have struggled to make shots consistently this season, but don't include rookie Taj Gibson in that group.

After scoring a season-high 18 points on 8-for-13 shooting in the loss Wednesday at Toronto, Gibson is averaging 8.3 points on 51.8 percent shooting. He has filled in nicely at power forward for starter Tyrus Thomas, who is out with a fractured left forearm.

Besides scoring inside, Gibson has stepped out to the perimeter and knocked down quite a few mid-range jumpers.

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After a splendid preseason, Gibson got off to a slow start in the regular season, but now he is back to playing with the poise of someone with much more experience.

''The game's slowed down a lot,'' he said. ''I've been able to watch a lot of film, I understand play calls and adjusting to certain plays.''

drose1 wrote:I agree, Taj is playing incredible for a rookie. In only 8 games, he already understands the game better than Tyrus has in 3 seasons. This weeks NBA rookie report has him at 10th overall, and 3rd at the forward position. If he keeps it up, maybe back to back rookie of the years for the bulls?