As the offseason moves on, we continue our long wait for the 2009-2010 season.  But since Ben Gordon left, many Bulls fans' anticipation and excitement has been lost.  There are complaints about how much scoring we will lose and how our depth at the guard spot is very thin, and although I very much agree, I can still find many reasons to look forward to the upcoming season. 

            Assuming our roster stays the same as it is throughout the entire season, though that is somewhat doubtful, I believe the Bulls will finish at least 41-41.  The loss of Ben Gordon's offense and defense offsets, because no matter how great his offense was, his defense was still average at best, and a 6'1 frame didn't help him.  This leads to my first topic: seeing how our offense and defense changes with Ben gone. 

            With Ben no longer hogging the ball, Derrick Rose will get more touches on the offensive end.  He will have more responsibility, and I can't wait to see how he handles it.  But what concerns me is that without Ben, the court won't be as spread, giving Rose less room to work with.  Salmons can definitely help that cause, but Deng cannot. 

            Defensively, I want to see how much better we get, if at all.  John Salmons has a good five inches on Ben, and he isn't all the slow either.  I'm hoping he can handle defending the shooting guard position. 

            Next on my list, I want to see if Tyrus can finally become a solid double double guy.  His athleticism alone should be able to get him at least six or seven rebounds per game, and just as many points off of transition.  If Tyrus works hard this season, I think this can actually be a good year for him.  Tyrus ended the season on a good note, hopefully it carries over. 

            I also want to see Tyrus improve his defensive game.  Man-on-man defense is his weakness, so I wish he would bulk up.  However, he said he wasn't trying to put on weight, so that concerns me.  His help defense, on the other hand, should stay the same or get better. 

            The last thing I want to point out for next season are the rookies.  James Johnson promises to be a good bench player, and possible starter in the future.  Gar and Pax really wanted this guy in the draft, so this is their chance to prove they can make a good draft selection.  Taj Gibson, an unexpected pick, is the other rookie to look out for.  Apparently he has been hustling and the coaches really like him.  I don't expect much out him this season, but if he can come off the bench and give a solid effort, that would be enough for me.

            The 2009-2010 season might not look fantastic, but it certainly doesn't look bad.  If anyone has any hopes or expectations to offer, feel free.