Derrick Rose Injury: Bulls Still on Collision Course with Heat Despite Absence

The Chicago Bulls won't be able to win a championship without their former MVP around to attack the rim in his explosive manner, but they should have no problem advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals in a rematch with the Miami Heat.

If there's one benefit from Rose tearing his ACL, it's that his team has grown accustomed to playing without its star player this year. They went 18-9 without Rose in the lineup as he battled through a 2011 season that was littered with injury pains.

The biggest reason for their success without Rose and their continued success moving forward without him are their backup point guards, John Lucas III and CJ Watson. 

Lucas III can pick it up on the offensive end to get the team going when they miss Rose's pure scoring help. He's small enough to weave through defenses and facilitates the ball very well. Having a solid deep shot doesn't hurt, either.

Then in comes Watson. One of two Tennessee players in the NBA, Watson knows how to get through adversity and overcome obstacles. He's shown a clutch gene this season and gets after it on the defensive end.

Chicago's defense is what will push them past their first-round matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers, and potentially with the Boston Celtics. The Celtics struggle to score at times this season, and the Bulls' defense is what will wear them down throughout the playoff season.

Luol Deng has emerged over the past few seasons as one of the most dangerous scorers in the league, and it's safe to say he doesn't get enough credit for it. He has the ability to create shots too, which will help sharpshooters like Kyle Korver and Rip Hamilton get some great looks.

It's hard for anyone to stand up with Chicago's defense, and their inside presence deteriorates those who do. Joakim Noah and Carlos Boozer are one of the best frontcourt duos in the NBA behind Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum of the Lakers, and they can take over games on both sides of the ball.

Without Rose in the lineup for the rest of the season, don't expect the Bulls to be pushovers. They will still advance to the Conference Finals and could even make some noise past then.