Most NBA analysts weren't expecting much from the Bulls this season, maybe a run at one of the bottom playoff spots in the Eastern Conference if things went well. But after a few breathtaking performances by rookie point guard Derrick Rose during preseason, the ceiling has definitely been set higher.
Rose is certain to endure some growing pains. The 20-year-old Chicago native spent only one year in college at Memphis and NBA opponents will surely do whatever they can to cut off his paths to the basket. But remember also that Rose is surrounded by an accomplished supporting cast. Luol Deng, Ben Gordon, Kirk Hinrich and Andres Nocioni were all major contributors when the Bulls made the playoffs three straight years from 2005-08, while Drew Gooden and Larry Hughes played in the NBA Finals with Cleveland in 2006.
Everything went well in the opening-night win over Milwaukee, but next up is as tough a challenge as there is in the league, visiting the defending champion Boston Celtics on Friday. It should be an interesting test for the Bulls, though, to see what Rose can accomplish and whether an undersized front line can compete against Kevin Garnett and company.
In the next week, the Bulls will play road games against three of the four playoff semifinalists from the Eastern Conference last season. After facing the Celtics, the Bulls travel to Orlando and Cleveland next week.
BULLS 108, BUCKS 95: The Bulls broke open a close game late in the third quarter and cruised to a 108-95 victory over Milwaukee in the season opener on Tuesday at the United Center. Playing with confidence behind rookie point guard Derrick Rose, the Bulls shot 50.7 percent from the field, held a 20-1 edge in fast break points and out-scored the Bucks 33-15 at the foul line. F Luol Deng led six players in double-figures with 21 points, while G Ben Gordon added 18. Michael Redd scored 30 for Milwaukee.
