Rose Flourishing in Offense

Bulls rookie Derrick Rose is faring better in his inaugural season than most NBA pundits had predicted.  It’s been tirelessly documented on this blog that the transition from the collegiate ranks to the pro game is especially difficult for point guards, but Rose already looks like a veteran out on the floor.  Part of the reason that Rose is playing so well is that head coach Vinny Del Negro’s offense is well-suited for the young point guard.  “The Bulls’ style is open, with at least good spacing, and it is designed as a penetrate-and-pitch scheme, which again favors the skills that Rose brings to the table,” writes Basketball Prospectus’ Anthony Macri.

Rose is more than willing to pass the ball, but he sees very little help defense from perimeter defenders thanks to the Bulls’ outside shooting prowess.  Rose is an excellent finisher at the rim, so by the time the help does arrive, it’s often too late.  Rose is currently averaging roughly 19 points, 5 assists and 5 rebounds per game.  The assists would be higher if Rose had more capable finishers at the rim.  Tyrus Thomas is a strong finisher, but he needs to be set up perfectly because he lacks the ability to create for himself.  Once the Bulls find a post player of some kind, Rose’s assists are sure to spike.  He’s doing pretty well in the meantime, though.

Get all your Chicago Bulls tickets at Stubhub.com.