Knicks Vs. Bulls: Will Derrick Rose Help Extend New York's Losing Streak?

The New York Knicks are in what can best be described as a bit of a funk, losing five consecutive games while not exactly showing the energy and chemistry needed to win NBA games. That will have to change on Monday night against the Chicago Bulls, however, as they'll meet a Derrick Rose led team that has won nine of their past 10 games.

The Knicks became the NBA's darling when former D-Leaguer Jeremy Lin was leading a team void of Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire on an epic winning streak that made the Taiwanese-American point guard a household name. The honeymoon period is over, however, and New York's 12-point loss on Sunday has threatened to throw the Knicks into even further disarray.

The bulls have been dealing with quite a few injuries as Joakim Noah, Luol Deng and Rip Hamilton all missed their last outing on Saturday, but somehow continue to win. It's likely thanks to their chemistry and depth, but both of that could drastically change if the latest NBA trade rumors are legit and they're seriously considering acquiring Dwight Howard from the Orlando Magic.

If said rumors are taken seriously by the Bulls roster, it could create some distractions. If not, the Knicks might be in trouble when the two teams tip-off at 8 p.m. on ESPN.

For more on the Bulls, check out Blog A Bull and SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Knicks, head over to Posting And Toasting and SB Nation New York.