http://www.nba.com/2010/news/features/art_garcia/08/31/derrick-rose-feature/

I think the Bulls were aware of this before they whiffed on the big three, but knew that Boozer was a reliable fall-back. No doubt the league is paying attention and Rose has been more of a passer in these championships, without really seeing what he can do when he is asked to do more.  By the way, has anyone noticed how much better his defense is these days?

I get the sense that optimism is starting to brew with the Bulls. They've been a young and exciting team for ages, but this year feels different and it's weird to hear someone like Bogans talk about this as a championship team. I wouldn't go that far, but it does give me a fuzzy feeling inside.

My guess is Bogans plays a big midseason role with the BUlls right now since they have so many back to backs. The Bulls were stuck with so many in the past two seasons but couldn't rely on Lindsey Hunter or Pargo for any help.

But this is the time for optimism.

Link: Bogans on the Bulls

5 Reasons Why Derrick Rose Will Be Better in His Third Season

I read this several times and the more I think of it: We never really got to see Derrick Rose in his role as a pure point guard. He's still going to score a lot, but Ben Gordon was paired with him (a 6'1 shooting guard who hogs the ball). I like the thinking: If they build the team around him, he can play in his role as point guard first, scorer second and then maybe close games.

Funny, if not clever piece from Windy Citizen writer....

I think there's some truth to it, though. The Bulls are trying to trade Hinrich and Deng and there's no reason to believe they won't go after Minnesota's roster.

Plus, the pieces are beginning to come together. If Chris Paul goes, the league will shift in that direction.

I also see a lot more optimism out of Bulls bloggers these days, except for Sam, of course.