The Bulls Index

I had the opportunity to watch Game 1 of the highly anticipated Eastern Conference Finals last night and was thoroughly impressed by the Chicago Bulls.  The current MVP, Derrick Rose is the most exciting player to watch in the NBA, without question.  His quickness and raw athleticism challenges the boundaries of physical nature.  Drafted in 2008, the kid is blooming into the perfect Rose.  He is only 22 years young, the youngest MVP in NBA history.  His humbleness and leadership has gained the respect of his fellow teammates, including veterans like Carlos Boozer.  NBA fans, Bulls fans especially, should be thankful because this kid is going to be a joy to watch for many years to come.

In addition to drafting Derrick Rose in 2008, the Bulls' front office made another excellent move in the recent hiring of Tom Thibodeau.  Signed in 2010, Thibodeau has proven his worth as a defensive-minded coach.  The Heat have yet to beat the Bulls this season and in the playoffs (3-0, 1-0) largely due to their defense.  In Game 1, the Bulls held the Heat to a measly 82 points.  Very impressive considering the Heat are averaging 93.5 PPG in the playoffs.  Not to mention, their roster boasts two of the league's best players in Lebron James and Dwayne Wade.

If the Bulls can continue to frustrate James and Wade offensively, the Heat are going to have a hard time winning this series.  From watching last night, the Bulls seem content to give Bosh 30 points and 9 rebounds, understanding that he will not be able to carry the offensive load by himself.  The Bulls' defense is focused on stopping the iceberg, not just the tip.  This seems to be the obvious option, which is true, but the Bulls are able to pull it off due to their team defense.  The Bulls exemplify a certain tenacity and sense of pride on the defensive end.  It sure will be interesting to see if the Heat can somehow expose the Bulls and create some easier looks at the basket.  This series is not over by any means, but Chicago sure made a statement in Game 1, just take a look at these two plays by Taj Gibson.

Game 1 was an entertaining opening act, I predict 5 more to come.  Chicago in 6.