With Boozer's Return, This Is Still Rose's Team
Carlos Boozer could make his Bulls' debut tonight when the Bulls play the Orlando Magic in their first home game after the "circus trip." His return will raise the Bulls' offensive game to another level. But there are some who are concerned that Boozer's return will detract from Derrick Rose's development.
"It's a legitimate concern," K.C. Johnson, of the Chicago Tribune, said on the Mully and Hanley Show. "I thought it was very telling yesterday when [the media] asked Carlos who's team is this, and he said 'this is Derrick Rose's team.' And he said it quickly and seemingly genuinely, so I think he sees that."
LISTEN: K.C. Johnson On The Mully And Hanley Show
Podcast
I think everyone can recognize what's happening here. [Derrick Rose] is a very special player. Growing and unfurrowing his wings, taking flight and taking his game to another level."
Those who have followed Rose throughout his career are very aware of the step he has taken since last season. This is Rose's third season in the league and each year he has taken big steps. In his rookie season, Rose averaged 16.8 points per game. In his second year that average jumped to 20.8 points per game. However, the strides he has made this season (26.6 PPG and 8.2 assists per game) have put Rose among the elite point guards in the league. But Boozer's return won't detract from the offensive game that Rose has developed.
"Boozer is a very very smart offensive player," Johnson said. "He's an incredible passer. He has a great basketball I.Q. His offensive game is incredibly versatile and he plays off people well. And he did that in Utah with Deron Williams, who obviously is another elite point guard. So I don't foresee Carlos' return harming Derrick Rose's game in any way what so ever. I think it's going to augment it."
