NBA: 5 Things Learned From Watching Chicago Bulls vs Indiana Pacers

Derrick Rose returns to the NBA. Photo credit Adidas

by Rodney Fisher

Everyone knows how much of a basketball fan I am and I know it may be only the second game of the preseason, but watching this game only made me more anxious for the 2012-13 season to start. The Indiana Pacers challenged the Miami Heat for the Eastern Conference, while the Chicago Bulls minus Derrick Rose could not overcome injuries and illness. Like that one song, by that one guy, times are changing.


1. Derrick Rose Is Back
 
He was vilifed for not returning last year during the playoffs, although he was medically cleared. He apparently knew his body better than fans or the media did. Rose was back to his explosive self, signified with his breakaway dunk in the third quarter. He did not shy away from playing defense either. Thirteen points in twenty minutes after missing a year is a good sign.

 

2. Forgot About Danny Granger

With the anticipation to watch Derrick Rose handle the ball again, I totally forgot that Danny Granger was returning for the Pacers this season. The emergence of Paul George in the playoffs made most of us forget that Granger was the rising superstar in yellow. It will be interesting to see how explosive he can make their offense and if Frank Vogel can keep everyone on the same page.

3. Mike Dunleavy and Luis Scola Are Big Additions

Dunleavy will fit in well with the hard-working attitude of the Chicago Bulls. He is a good defender, rebounder, and can spot-up from the three point line.

Scola can score in the post. If teams have to slow him down, that is going to create opportunites for everyone else because he is good passer.

4. The Bulls Need To Keep Luol Deng

Deng will be playing a free-agent year with the Bulls this season and will be a rumored name around the trade deadline. The Bulls need to keep Deng on the roster, unless they get a deal they can't pass up.

5. The Eastern Conference Is Wide-Open

You watch how good both the Pacers and Bulls look and think the other Eastern Conference teams are just as good. Add the Brooklyn Nets, Miami Heat, New York Knicks to the race and it is going to be fun to watch.