Bulls Rumors: Rip Hamilton Acquisition Alone Is Not Enough to Beat the Heat

Bulls fans must hope that a Rip Hamilton acquisition isn't the only new weapon they're bringing to the emerging rivalry with the Miami Heat. There are several sources indicating Hamilton to the Bulls is a fact. The Pistons have decided to buy out Hamilton's contract, making him a free agent, free to sign with any team. That would appear to be the Chicago Bulls, for two years, $10 million.

Don't get me wrong, I believe Hamilton's addition certainly makes the Bulls a better team. His experience, shooting ability and history as a solid clutch performer are obvious assets. Still, the Bulls were more than a Rip Hamilton away from beating the Heat last year.

Despite what many call a close series, the Bulls lost in five games to Miami. Sure, four of those games were nail-biters, but as I have mentioned, most playoff games are. In addition to that, the Heat will be better as well.

They have already signed Shane Battier, who will bolster their bench, which was one of Miami's weaknesses. Also, Eddy Curry is not the same Eddy Curry most of us last saw. Curry is down under 300 pounds, which it seems was a prerequisite of consideration from Pat Riley.

Curry doesn't project as the starter right now, but there are still a few centers available to take that role, namely Kwame Brown. Keep in mind, the Heat don't need an All-Star at center.

These additions don't make the Heat unbeatable, but I would hope the Bulls are at least still exploring the possibilities of completing a sign-and-trade with the Atlanta Hawks for Jamal Crawford, as has been rumored.

The player that would ideally be included in this trade is Ronnie Brewer, though, I can see the Hawks pushing for either Taj Gibson or Omer Asik. It is certainly a stiffer price to pay, but it is worth it in the grand scheme of things.

The Bulls didn't lose to Miami because of defense. The Heat were a better defensive team than the Dallas Mavericks, but we all know who will be hoisting the banner on Christmas Day.

Plainly put, the outstanding Bulls defense can afford to trade a little defense for offense, especially that of the clutch variety. The Bulls need players that can take pressure off of Rose in the fourth and grab the attention of opposing defenses.

Potentially, chasing Hamilton through screens could tire Dwyane Wade and LeBron James, and he isn't the defensive or athletic liability that Kyle Korver was, and is.

As much as that is true, when you get a chance to win or contend for a championship, you grab it with authority. If Hamilton is the end of the Bulls' additions to their team, I don't think that is a very firm grip on this opportunity.