Bulls

They Rose Without Rose 

 The Chicago Bulls have been nothing short of miraculous in these last two seasons without their Most Valuable Player Derrick Rose. Rose has been sidelined with ACL and torn meniscus injuries to both of his knees. Joakim Noah and his teammates have continued to persevere through their superstar's misfortunes and the trading of Luol Deng. The Bulls’ personnel have been forced to step into roles by their stringent coach Tom Thibodeau.

Thibodeau has always been known for his suffocating defense as it takes a toll on teams during the course of a 48-minute contest. However, his ability to be a leader of men has been somewhat of an understatement. Thibs has morphed Noah from an energy-hustle player into a quality all-around player at the center position. Jimmy Butler has become one of the best wing defenders in the NBA. Taj Gibson might be on the verge of garnering a big contract and a starting role in Chicago by next season. Finally, D.J. Augustin has been the energy they have needed off the bench as Thibodeau has labeled him a "season saver." This is nothing new for Chicago because Thibodeau has taken productive players and made them consistent since he arrived in "The Windy City." The list of players that he has helped get paid in the NBA includes: Kyle Korver, Nate Robinson, Marco Belinelli, and Omer Asik.


There is no question that Chicago will compete, defend, and play hard for 48 minutes. However, Chicago is offensively challenged without Rose as this playoff series against the Wizards has shown us once again. This Bulls team is overachieving especially when you consider the talent on their roster. They are nothing more than a bonafide lottery team. What separates them from teams like the Utah Jazz and the Milwaukee Bucks is their effort and will to win. As a spectator and a basketball purist, you have to respect the Bulls and the way they play. Until Derrick Rose is out on the floor and competing with his teammates, the Bulls are nothing more than a scrappy underdog and a feel good story.