Rose is still rehabbing after tearing both his ACL and MCL, but the Bulls are saying they expect Rose back at some point this season. While it is certainly possible (medical advancements have shorted recovery times for these types of injuries), it remains unlikely that Rose will be able to return in time to salvage the season for the Bulls.

Chicago's season will be defined by Rose. His shadow will hang over every loss. His return will be met with great anticipation. His production upon his return will be deeply scrutinized (as deeply as Sportscenter scrutinizes anything, anyway). Even though they very well could still make the playoffs, Chicago is the first team of the 2012-13 season to embrace the mantra, "there's always next year".

A parting thought out the Bulls. Let's say the Bulls sneak into the playoffs, with Rose returning a month or so before the end of the regular season. Rose will have had enough time, presumably, to re-adjust to the speed of the game, and regain his confidence with regards to running, cutting, etc. Let's say this scenario plays out, because it's not all that unlikely at this point. Do you think any team in the East will want to play Chicago in the first round?