Gordon struggling with pace of game.

Byline: K.C. Johnson

CHICAGO _ Buzz from individual workouts and buzzwords like "upside" propelled Ben Gordon to the third overall pick in last June's draft.

Mostly nondescript performances in the first three exhibition games have sunk some of the hype, although the rookie guard isn't fazed.

Asked if his confidence had taken a hit, Gordon said: "Not at all. I realize this is a long season. You can't let two or three games determine your mood. You have to work through it.

"I haven't been consistent. But I'm trying to use these games as learning experiences and listen to our veterans. They're helpful. I'm trying to take it all in and find my way."

Finding his shooting stroke will help. Gordon is shooting 20.8 percent in averaging 7.3 points. No longer able to beat most opponents off the dribble, Gordon is settling for more jump shots.

"The pace of this ... Ben's having a little struggle with," coach Scott Skiles said. "He's not moving as quickly as we'd like, obviously. But we're not overly worried.

"I'm making a serious mistake if I'm too judgmental in the first few games. We're playing a lot of young guys who, frankly, aren't NBA-ready. We understand that."

That said, the first three games have raised some red flags. Gordon has struggled to defend, averaging four fouls. Foul trouble limited him to 13 minutes in Saturday night's loss to Cleveland in St. Louis.

"Some guys are quicker than others," Gordon said. "Once I figure it out, I'll maintain it and do well."

The adjustments of Andres Nocioni and Luol Deng have been smoother. Deng is averaging 12.3 points and 4.7 rebounds and is displaying an aggressive knack for the ball. Defensively, his wingspan and footwork are making up for what he lacks in quickness.

"Luol is always going to err on the side of being aggressive," Skiles said. "That's great for a guy who has had just one year of college."

Nocioni has struggled with his outside shot, hitting 30 percent, but consistently has displayed an aggressive nature.

"He doesn't back down at all," Skiles said. "He doesn't quit on plays. That's why we like him."

Nocioni guarded LeBron James on Saturday. The amiable rookie is like a sponge, soaking up every experience.

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BIG AND TALL

Skiles lamented that Eddy Curry and Tyson Chandler combined for five defensive rebounds in 57 minutes in Saturday's loss. But he praised the progress of their help defense, a problem area much of their careers.

"I feel I'm recognizing situations better," said Chandler, who is averaging 24.3 minutes. "I used to help just by shot-blocking. Now when I see somebody driving, I get my whole body there and get my hands up."

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LAYUPS

Chris Jefferies, waived Oct. 4, isn't costing the Bulls anything. As part of the Jamal Crawford trade, general manager John Paxson got the Knicks to pay Jefferies' guaranteed $899,040 salary. ... _ Eric Piatkowski was assigned Scottie Pippen's longtime locker. Rookies Jared Reiner and Chris Duhon are sharing Michael Jordan's old haunts. ... _ The Bulls held a free, fan-friendly scrimmage Sunday at the United Center. Eddie Robinson didn't attend, furthering speculation that the forward will be bought out or waived.

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