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Before the Bulls game on Monday, Denver Nuggets coach, George Karl, was asked how the Carlos Boozer injury affects the Bulls.

“My feeling is that the Boozer injury might be good for them from the standpoint that [Joakim] Noah is taking more responsibility and [Taj] Gibson has been stronger,” Karl said. “When Boozer comes back, will they be able to share the spotlight? I think they will. [Boozer being hurt] also gives more of an opportunity to the guys they signed [because] they need to play well for [the Bulls] to be successful.”

Karl also explained how the Bulls can become a contender in the Eastern Conference with Boozer back.

“Boozer will give them a different face than they have now,” Karl speculated on Boozer’s eventual return. “They will be able to throw the ball into the low block however many times they want—10, 15 or 20 times a game. Boozer is a very intelligent player. He’s very good at the pick and roll, and the high post. I think he and Noah will work very well together. Gibson seems to be picking up a little of the high post stuff too.

“I’m a big Boozer guy,” Karl continued. “He’s very capable of making this team make the next step pretty easily if he’s healthy.”

Boozer’s cast was removed from his right hand on Nov. 2 and the power forward’s rehabilitation process is underway. There is no timetable for his return and his on-court activities have been minimal thus far.

Karl repeated that if Boozer would stay healthy, then the Bulls would develop as a team.

“In the end, injuries can help your team find out where it is and what it can be because you’ve got to play guys that you might not play if you didn’t have injuries,” said Karl.

As for the game, Karl wasn't too happy that the Nuggets were facing the Bulls. The Bulls were coming off a two-game losing streak and the Bulls looked hungry for a win.

“I’m scared to death of tonight’s game,” said Karl. “I think they’re going to come out with some intensity and energy.”