Derrick Rose Injury: Chicago Bulls Will Benefit Without MVP in Lineup

Derrick Rose is the key to the Chicago Bulls' success in the postseason. His back injury has everyone concerned, but there is something that the team can gain by playing without the reigning league MVP for a few games. 

No one knows exactly what is going on with Rose's back right now. According to Nick Friedell of ESPN Chicago, Rose is going to see a specialist today. 

As long as the Bulls and Rose get good news regarding his back and he is able to return soon, the team will grow and evolve in the absence of the superstar point guard. 

We have seen teams rally around each other when they are faced with their greatest adversity. It can be a galvanizing force for the Bulls. Everyone else will have to step up their performance to keep the team going, and Rose will be able to pick up where he left off when he returns. 

The last two games without Rose have been a valuable learning experience for the team. They were able to dominate the Charlotte Bobcats on Friday, which isn't saying much since everyone dominates them.

Sunday was a different story, as the Boston Celtics were able to capitalize on Rose's absence to knock off the Bulls 95-91. Carlos Boozer and Joakim Noah stepped up their games in the absence of their leader. Luol Deng struggled, shooting just 3-for-12 from the field, but there is no reason to think that will be a trend. 

Rose is the difference between this team being a contender in the Eastern Conference and a first-round exit in the playoffs. But with the season being as condensed as it is, time off can do him a world of good. 

We will have to wait for an official report, but as long as he can come back with the team still firmly entrenched in the playoff picture everything will be fine. The Bulls are not a team that needs home-court advantage to win. 

Bench players like Josh Lucas and C.J. Watson can get more comfortable with an increased role in the offense, and that will serve the team well late in the season heading into the playoffs. 

Losing a superstar for even one game is never easy, but it doesn't have to be a crippling blow to the Bulls' chances in the postseason. As long as they can stay afloat while he is out, they will be fine.

 

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