Rodman Concerns Bulls Coach

Once again, the Worm is turning into a playoff distraction.

Dennis Rodman, whose erratic behavior, selfishness and bickering with referees contributed to the San Antonio Spurs’ postseason failure last year, was fined $5,000 by the NBA for making an obscene gesture at a referee in the Chicago Bulls’ playoff game the night before.

Rodman was ejected from the 106-75 victory over the Miami Heat, and Bulls coach Phil Jackson is concerned about his moody, mercurial forward.

“Dennis and I had a little talk,” Jackson said Monday. “I’m not comfortable with Dennis’ mental standpoint. He felt like he was picked out and made an example of. It was a physical game, but Dennis carried it too far.

“We tried to tell him that after the whistle blows, contact stops. I think Dennis understands. How he’s going to play is another statement.”