Bulls News: How Derrick Rose's Potential Return Will Affect Chicago's Rotation

Derrick Rose could take on full contact this week, according to Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau.

This comes as good news for Bulls fans, as any news concerning Rose getting back to the hardwood is promising. 

With that said, Chicago's superstar still intends to be out until March. At that point in the season, the Bulls will be structured in their rotation and it won't be easy tweaking their lineup for a superstar. 

Here's what you'll see when the dynamic point guard eventually returns to the lineup. 

Nate Robinson's Role Diminished

Robinson has been a spark plug on offense in Rose's absence, scoring 18 points per 36 minutes, the second-highest total among all Bulls.

When Rose is healthy, though, he will play a heavy dose of minutes, and a backcourt with him and Robinson is simply a defensive liability. Kirk Hinrich can defend shooting guards, so he provides a more balanced fit than Robinson.

Not that this adjustment will hurt Robinson's production. He's one of the NBA's most dynamite scorers, able to fill up the stat sheet in limited minutes.

Robinson will be called upon for an offensive infusion, and he'll be able to do so even with Rose playing 30-plus minutes.

Carlos Boozer’s Usage Will Go Down

While many Chicago fans had already left him for dead, Carlos Boozer has been a pleasant surprise for the Bulls this season.

The offensively-gifted big man averages a double-double and is on pace to eviscerate his best rebounding total since joining the Bulls.

His newfound rebounding prowess will not be deterred by Rose's return. In fact, it will prove to be a catalyst in the playoffs.

However, his usage rate ranks in the NBA's top 50, alongside Blake Griffin and Rudy Gay. With Rose back in the fold, his role in the offense will diminish some, with more focus on pick-and-roll and tip-in opportunities. 

However, Boozer has become a "banger" as a result of Rose's absence, so he has his most defined role since joining the Bulls three years ago.

Boozer and Rose are no strangers to each other; they should be able to find a balance just in time for playoff basketball.

Joakim Noah Will Be Even More Dangerous Offensively

Noah has become an able presence in the Bulls offense this season, but he has yet to play with Rose.

Having the luxury of an athletic penetrator that defenses must focus on will lead to many easy baskets inside for the Chicago big.

Since Noah entered the league, teams would sag off and dare him to shoot open 15 footers or drive the lane. Now defenders can’t give him a free pass, and Rose will be able to penetrate and kick to his new toy.

The Bulls have five capable scorers on the floor in their starting lineup. Derrick Rose will like what he sees out of this roster.

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