Gar Forman gave Tom Thibodeau an indirect acknowledgement of his impact on the Chicago Bulls by telling reporters he had studies to support that "grit is the No. 1 factor in having success."

The studies involving grit are not from the NBA in which the quality of talent on a roster determines success.

The Bulls had a stronger than expected regular season following the season-ending injury to Derrick Rose, but were eliminated in five games by the Washington Wizards.

The Bulls are expected to pursue Carmelo Anthony, though that would likely mean using the amnesty provision on Carlos Boozer and eventually going into the luxury tax, which the franchise has been reluctant to do.