NEWSLETTER
Gar Forman is gone. John Paxson has a new role. And the Chicago Bulls officially have a new VP of Basketball Operations (more on that part, specifically, later). For now, let’s stick with the old.
With the organization since 1998, Gar Forman has been officially relieved of his duties as the Chicago Bulls general manager.
After 22 years in the Chicago Bulls organization, GM Gar Forman has been fired.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 13, 2020
The writing’s been on the wall for almost an entire season, as we learned quite early-on that Forman would either be fired or demoted to a scouting role by the end of the year. However, it appears the organization has decided to part ways with the long-time Bulls employee early, officially putting the final nail in the coffin of the GarPax regime.
I mean, did you ever think you’d see the day?
Gar Forman in statement: "It has been an honor and a privilege to work for the Chicago Bulls for more than two decades. There is no better ownership group in professional sports than the Reinsdorfs, and I want to thank Jerry and Michael for their support during my tenure."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) April 13, 2020
Jerry Reinsdorf adds some nice words, and we learn a bit more about Forman’s future.
Forman, according to a source, had 2 years remaining on his deal. He will be in demand as a scout with other teams.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) April 13, 2020
As Johnson notes, Forman still has two years on his deal, which the Bulls will be forced to eat. Though, according to Joe Cowley, the hit isn’t much relative to other GMs around the league (shocking … *he writes sarcastically*).
As for John Paxson, he hasn’t quite been fired – but fancy new title or not – it’s fair to say he’s been relieved of his primary duties.
John Paxson will move into a new role as Senior Advisor of Basketball Operations for the Bulls.
— Eric Woodyard (@E_Woodyard) April 13, 2020
Bulls also announce that Paxson is officially senior adviser of basketball operations. Basically, he's there if Karnisovas wants to bounce anything off him.
— Joe Cowley (@JCowleyHoops) April 13, 2020
Basically, he’s still here because he’s friends with the Reinsdorfs. While it would have been every fan’s dream to see both names out the door, I’ll happily accept this outcome. The Bulls have made it very clear from the start that Arturas Karnisovas is at the helm of this organization. The fact that he is already re-shaping the front office with new hires, and he seemed to have the power to give Forman the ax should prove that this organization is headed in a fresh direction.
Paxson might still be getting a paycheck from the Reinsdorf, but he’s now getting paid to keep his mouth shut.
Here’s some not-really-parting, parting words:
John Paxson in statement: "While I’m in a new role and a new phase in my life, what won’t ever change is my commitment to the Bulls and appreciation to Jerry and Michael for the incredible opportunities I’ve been afforded."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) April 13, 2020
More Paxson: "I’ve always tried to do what was best for our organization and put our team in position to succeed, and ultimately compete. I know Arturas will do the same. He brings the kind of talent, experience and commitment to collaboration that will allow him to succeed."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) April 13, 2020
And Jerry Reinsdorf jumps in once again:
Jerry Reinsdorf on Pax: "John has an invaluable perspective on our organization and where we want to be, and he played an instrumental role in this change by bringing forward the idea of a restructure and reorganization."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) April 13, 2020
More Jerry Reinsdorf on Pax: "His decision to take on a new role reflects what I’ve always known about John – that he is forever a willing teammate on and off of the court and always does what he believes is in the best interest of the Chicago Bulls.”
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) April 13, 2020
Directly from the belly of the beast, we hear that Paxson was reportedly a big part of the Bulls switching gears. I’m not sure his plan involved a huge demotion, but perhaps his advocacy for change is the true reason he’s sticking around. Whatever, at the end of the day, if he doesn’t have his fingerprints on basketball operations, I’m content.
The major takeaway from today: We can welcome in a new era. As hesitant as we’ve all been to accept this reality, the Bulls have finally turned a corner. I know a lot of work is yet to be done, but I think it’s time we can trust this organization again. Karnisovas has been handed the keys, and he’s already driving Chicago down a path toward relevancy. I can finally enjoy the ride.
