Bulls Rumors: Waiving Keith Bogans Puts Extra Pressure on Richard Hamilton

Many expected the Chicago Bulls would dump Keith Bogans, but now that it's official, it means the Bulls will look to Richard Hamilton to be the star they hope he'll be. Of course, there's no guarantee the newest Chicago player comes through, which would be a devastating blow to the Bulls. 

The Chicago Tribune reported that the Bulls cut ties with Bogans on Friday, which is a bigger loss than some might think. 

Bogans may not have been an offensive stud, but he did the little things that helped the Bulls win, things that Hamilton won't likely do. 

This means that Hamilton will have to live up to the Bulls expectations, or there will be a lot of angry people in Chicago. 

The Bulls need Hamilton to put points on the board and relieve Derrick Rose of pressure. However, now that Bogans is gone, the depth of the team takes a hit, which puts stress on Hamilton. 

Hamilton already had a monkey on his back because he's had a good career. The Bulls were so desperate for a scoring 2-guard that when they landed the former Detroit Piston, fans rejoiced and immediately had dreams of a title. 

Had Chicago been able to keep Bogans, Hamilton wouldn't be feeling extra pressure right now. Sure, the Bulls have other shooting guards, but Bogans was the real deal for them last season, and it would have been a pleasure to keep him on the team. 

Business is business though and teams make changes every year. Bogans started in all 82 games last year, as well as every single playoff game for Chicago. His hustle and hard work helped Chicago have the best record in the NBA. 

Hamilton is coming off his worst season since his rookie year, but playing with a title contender should be give him great motivation for reaching new heights this season.

The pressure is on, but Hamilton has the experience to get through it all. However, it remains to be seen if he can execute and satisfy not just Chicago fans but also his teammates, coaches and personnel.