Former Bulls legend Scottie Pippen thinks Chicago can win 40 games

Former Chicago Bulls legend Scottie Pippen isn't particularly optimistic about the Chicago Bulls' chances without superstar Derrick Rose this season.

Speaking on ESPN 1000 on The Waddle & Silvy Show, Pippen predicted 40 wins for the Bulls in 2012-13, as the team begins life without Rose -- for now.

"I think losing a guy like Derrick Rose is going to hamper you to some degree, but the Bulls have always worked harder than other teams and that's where they win the game," said Pippen, who is a Bulls ambassador.

Rose tore his ACL during Game 1 of Chicago's first-round playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers last May. Rose underwent surgery to repair the injury on May 12, and Rose is consequently expected to miss anywhere between eight and 12 months.

Replacing Rose isn't an easy task for Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau. Rose was the NBA's 2011 MVP, and has been named to the All-Star team three times (2010-12). Rose was also named the NBA's Rookie of the Year in 2009.

It's possible that 40 wins might be enough to sneak the Bulls into the playoffs, when Rose could potentially be available to play.

Chicago's regular season will kick off on Wednesday night, when the Bulls play host to the Sacramento Kings.