What gives?

• It seems the Bulls and Scott Skiles can't quit get on the same page when it comes to signing a long term extension. I don't know exactly who's asking for what, but as long as it's a reasonable offer, how can the Bulls even think of not bringing Skiles in for the long haul? He finally got the team back in the playoffs after 7 long seasons. This is a young team who could have finished with the 3rd worst record in the East, nevermind the fact that they had the 3rd best. I think that's pretty impressive, especially after an 0-9 start. I think going from 23-59 and having the 2nd worst record in the East all the way to 47-35 is reason enough to give Skiles what he wants. He got that team to play hard and with a true point guard who can defend added to that team and another quality bench player, this team could be even better next year.

• In Lakerland, Phil Jackson has set a mid-June deadline to decide what he'll be doing for next season. I can't quite remember the exact quote, but it's something along the lines of him waiting for a vision to see what he wants to do. He's talked to Kobe on the phone, but Kobe is wary of meeting in person in order to avoid the backlash if Phil decides he doesn't want to coach once he meets with Kobe. He doesn't want to take the blame. However, he said he'd meet with Jackson if the Laker big wigs asked him too. Dr. Buss is looking for a long term coach, not someone who is just going to be around for a year or two. I don't know what role that will have on the decision. I guess time will tell, or maybe his vision will. If Phil does decide to come back, you can expect a contract ranging from 7-10 million per year. Not to shabby.
  

• It seems the Wolves want to offer PJ Carlisimo their coaching job. There's one problem though, K.G. doesn't want him. I'm sure it has something to do with his teamatte Latrell Sprewell. But K.G. should remember one thing, it was Latrell who did the choking, not Carlisimo. Maybe he should reconsider who wants as a teamatte. If K.G. gives in and decides he can play for PJ, you can expect to see Spreewell in another uniform next year. I can't imagine those two coexisting again. If I were the Wolves I'd be looking to get rid of Spree anyways. He basically sucked all of last year and I think his days as an impact player are limited. I'll have to keep an eye on this story.
  

• For those of you interested in the labor talks, they are at a standstill. Both sides met yesterday for 2 1/2 hours but nothing came of it. No new meetings are scheduled. Some of the sticking points are the max length of long term deals and the increase of the minimum age. Just something to keep your eyes peeled for as the season comes to an end. For those interested, I have a post on the CBA a few spots down. Check it out!