Looking at the Positive

Before I begin, let me just say that as of this writing, Derrick Rose is heading off for an MRI.  Just how serious his injury is can't be known at this time, but I pray there's nothing too wrong with him.

In Game 1 of this conference quarterfinal against the Philadelphia 76ers, the Bulls came out running.  They allowed a few runs here and there, but aside from that and Rose's injury, everything went smoothly in a 103-91 victory.  15 more of those until a championship celebration.

Four of the five starters scored in double figures, led by Rose's game-high 23 points.  He finished a board and a dime short of a triple-double, so if he is indeed out for an extended period of time, he'll at least have one memorable performance from these playoffs under his belt.  Rip Hamilton played just like the experienced postseason player he is, making all but one shot for 19.  Luol Deng had 17 and Joakim Noah finished with 12.  Those two did just what was expected of them.  Kyle Korver's 11 points off the bench were a nice asset, but what about his defense?  He was all over the Sixers offense like it was his final game.  With or without Rose, he'll be key if the Bulls are to go far in the playoffs.  You may recall last year, he disappeared after the Indiana series.  A lot of what he does won't show up in a box score.  Unlike what some people think, he's not strictly a shooter.  Especially now, that defense and doing the little things help make up his game.

The 76ers wanted the Bulls and they got 'em.  I wonder if Evan Turner is having second thoughts about his comments regarding that yet.  In any case, regardless of who Philadelphia's playing, they won't be long for this series.  Like the Bulls against LeBron's Cavaliers two years ago, they're out to get just a win out of this.  I'll be surprised if a second trip to the Wells Fargo Center is required in this series.  It might be tougher to get a sweep right now, but I'm not worried about whether the Bulls will make it to the next round.  They're just as lethal without their reigning MVP.  Even against Miami, but that's for a future post.

Game 2 will take place Tuesday at the United Center.  By then, we'll know Rose's fate.  Whatever it is, keep up the intensity and crisp teamwork demonstrated today so we can head East with a 2-0 lead.