This is the other side of Rajon Rondo that Bulls fans were nervously waiting for. Despite his long track record of run-ins with teammates, coaches and referees, Fred Hoiberg and everyone on his roster had nothing but glowing remarks for Rondo during training camp. They praised his leadership, work ethic and positive attitude. Was this the same guy that has served multiple suspensions for behavioral problems over his 10 year NBA career?

Earlier today, the Bulls announced that they suspended their starting point guard for one game due to “conduct detrimental to the team.” According to multiple sources, Rondo got into a heated exchanged with Jim Boylen (Hoiberg’s associate head coach) during their loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday. Rajon reportedly threw a towel at Boylen during the game and the two had another heated exchange after the ugly loss.

Sticking Together

Jimmy Butler, the team’s new leader on and off the court, was quick to come to his point guard’s defense.

“I think this is just another bump in the road. He’s a phenomenal damn teammate and I back him on everything.” – Jimmy Butler

Butler doesn’t seem phased by Rondo’s latest behavioral outburst.

“These things happen and when things happen you handle it the way you’re supposed to handle it. I think we all love Rondo. I know I do. He’s been a great mentor to me, he’s made me a much better basketball player.” – Jimmy Butler

What about Rajon’s preexisting reputation around the league as a locker room cancer? Butler didn’t take that bait, insisting this latest incident won’t affect the positive reputation he’s already built in Chicago.

“I don’t feel his reputation fits him at all. Rondo’s an incredible basketball player, friend, brother to me now, to us. I think we love him here. I think the fans love him as well, the organization, I think everyone has nothing but great things to say about him. I don’t see where that reputation came from at all.” – Jimmy Butler

Forgive & Forget

As for Rondo’s head coach, The Mayor didn’t want to go into details on their talk, but expressed appreciation for his point guard.

“Rajon, as we’ve all said, has been great. A great teammate. I’ve enjoyed the relationship that we developed, and it’s not going to change moving forward.’’ – Fred Hoiberg

It sounds like all necessary parties are still on the same page for the Bulls. Let’s hope it isn’t just a positive media spin covering up an emerging problem in Hoiberg’s locker room. This team had enough of those problems last season.

Rondo will serve his one game suspension tonight, with second year guard Jerian Grant taking his place in the starting lineup. Hoiberg said Rondo will travel with the team to Detroit following tonight’s game, and is expected to be back in the lineup tomorrow against the Pistons.