The Chicago Bulls roster is strong, and we know that even before this off-season, and even during Rose's absence. Credit that to coach Tom Thibodeau who uses team defense in forcing their opponents to earn their points the hard way. 

But now, there's certainly a new hope going around in the Windy City, and for the first time in the post-Jordan era, they have a very strong team. 

One of the major additions of the Bulls this summer is veteran forward/center Pau Gasol who chose to leave the Lakers in search for a third NBA title. 

With Gasol's experience in the NBA finals, the Bulls automatically get a reliable offensive threat who may not be as explosive as he once was, but can still make tough plays and make the right decisions when it matters the most. 

In the past years, the Bulls have remained a perennial playoffs participant, which results from the team's grinding wins through tough team defense. Now that Rose is coming back again from an injury, he may not be dominant right away, but with new faces and scoring options for Chicago, he may need not be. 

Gasol brings an entirely new dimension to the Bulls' play, something they have lacked even during their stellar 62-10 record during the 2010-11 season - an elite post playmaker. 

Center Joakim Noah has been that man this last season, averaging almost five assists per game, one of the best in the power forward/center position. However, it also leaves the shaded lane open which means less second-chance opportunities. 

With Gasol and Noah in the lineup and able to run plays from the post, either of the two big men can cut inside either to get the board or get the return pass. 

Chicago will certainly be in for an exciting 2014-15 NBA season.