The Chicago Tribune recently reported that the Chicago native and well-beloved Bulls point guard, Derrick Rose, would be departing to join the New York Knicks in the coming season. Rose, a player on the Chicago Bulls team since he was the number one overall draft pick in 2008, has been a top icon in the city ever since. Rose was also named the Rookie of the Year in 2009 after an outstanding season, including winning Rookie of the Month three times and leading the team to a 45-45 record. Rose also led the team to the second round of the playoffs but couldn't pull off the win on his own. Through coaching alterations and what seemed to be a million injuries, Rose still gave his all to the team alongside fellow teammate Joakim Noah.
I had the pleasure of vacationing to Chicago in March 2015, to see the Bulls play the Wizards. The Wizards, long time enemies of the Bulls since Michael Jordan's time there, brought a surprising amount of energy to the bleachers, but nothing could drown out the overwhelming screams for Joakim Noah. Noah, a member of the team since 2007, has brought more than just a frizzy man bun to the team — he has brought a firm fan base (as long with a firm anti-fan base), and an amazing defensive atmosphere. In 2014, Noah won the Kia Defensive Player of the Year award for his run-away defense and a ridiculous amount of blocks. Two years ago there was no denying that Noah delivered, but now after he has struggled through more than just a broken thumb, he has lost his momentum as a leader on the team. Noah is due to play for the Knicks alongside Rose in the '16-'17 season.
Along with losing two long-time favorites of the Bulls franchise, Chicago had a serious scare about losing another fan-favorite: Jimmy Butler. Jimmy Butler is not only my favorite current NBA player but a favorite of many. Along with the loss of both Rose and Noah, the Bulls have decided to trade Mike Dunleavy to make room for Dwyane Wade on the team. Not only will the Bulls be picking up D-Wade, but they also will have Rajon Rondo joining the roster in the upcoming season.
This is a classic case of wife swap ... on steroids. Whether you are a Bulls fan or hater, you would be wise to take a look at the major team change this year. Could this be the major change the Bulls have needed for the past few years to get somewhere in the playoffs? Whatever the case is, it's tough to have more than one superstar on a team and keep the atmosphere relaxed. Perhaps the separation of Rose and Butler is exactly what the team needs to thrive again.
