Report: NBA warns Bulls to stop resting healthy veterans
The NBA reportedly has reprimanded the Chicago Bulls for resting healthy veterans such as center Robin Lopez and guard Justin Holiday in a perceived attempt to boost their chances for a top pick in the draft.
A report from Yahoo Sports said the Bulls planned to play Lopez and Holiday more extensively after hearing from the league about its concerns. Lopez and Holiday are averaging in double digits in scoring but have been on the inactive list in recent weeks while the team gives more time to younger players.
The NBA discourages the practice of resting healthy players, likely in an attempt to limit overt "tanking" by teams searching for a top pick in the draft. The league reportedly sent word to all team owners clarifying its stance.
The Bulls likely will reinsert Lopez and Holiday into the rotation, although their roles remain uncertain.
Bulls executive John Paxson offered some insights to ESPN's Nick Friedell.
"After the All-Star Break we had communication with the league office about Robin and Justin's roles -- after healthy dialogue the league determined that their situations fall into the ‘player rest' policy," Paxson told Friedell. "We respect the communication and cooperative dialogue with the league and will adhere to their recommendations going forward."
Lopez, 29, is averaging 12.3 points and 4.7 rebounds per game this season. Meanwhile, the 28-year-old Holiday is averaging 13.0 points and 4.5 rebounds on the season.
--Field Level Media
