What We've Learned From the Chicago Bulls' "Circus Trip"

And so we have come to the conclusion of yet another Chicago Bulls patented "November Circus Road Trip," an event that has done more to continually reaffirm for the Bulls and their fans that they are no longer a preeminent franchise in the NBA.

Since 1998, when the curtains fell on one of the greatest teams in NBA history, ushering in a decade of futility leading to inconsistent uncertainty, the Bulls have gone 6-52 on the annual trip. 

And while this year got off to a similar start with the Bulls losing big against the Los Angeles Lakers and the Portland Trailblazers, the Bulls made some improvements to finish the trip with a modestly impressive 3-4.

So as they prepare to play five of their next eight at home, against lackluster teams, it is an appropriate time to assess what we have learned from the road trip, and what the Bulls can take with them through a somewhat easier schedule in December.

1. Derrick Rose! Derrick Rose! Derrick Rose!

This kid is so good. He has an intelligence on the court, and a patience with the ball that is not displayed by very many 19-year-olds, particularly those who are selected No. 1 in the draft. (Joakim Noah, take notes.) Rose's unselfish play gets his teammates involved, moves the ball around and creates opportunities, making the team more cohesive. (Ben Gordon, take notes.)

He is so smooth when turning on the guns for a drive through the lane, schooling guys five-feet off the dribble. Opposing players just stop and just watch him go by, realizing there is nothing they can do once he sees his line.

There is such an excitement with watching this kid evolved in front out our eyes from game to game. Yours truly finds himself calling out numerous times per game, saying, "I can't believe we have this kid!!!"

Beyond his obvious skills and sensibility, Rose's stats provide a clear indication to the Bulls highs and lows of the season. In the Bulls' eight victories this year, Rose is averaging 23 points, 7 assists and 7 rebounds in 38 mpg. Conversely, in their nine losses, Rose's numbers are way down, averaging 15 pts, five assists and four rebounds. 

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