Danny Granger injury could mean Derrick Rose doesn't have to rush back

Indiana Pacers small forward Danny Granger will miss the next three months, following an injection in his left knee, per CSN Chicago.

Granger received the injection to treat patellar tendinosis -- which is an inflammation of the patellar tendon.

While injuries are always unfortunate and bad for the sport, Granger's injury provides a silver lining to Chicago Bulls fans. Injured Bulls superstar Derrick Rose might not have to rush back from his injury as a result, since the Pacers, too, will be shorthanded for awhile.

Plenty of factors will go into Chicago's eventual decision on when to bring Rose back, and none will be more important than Rose's own health. If the Bulls are on the verge of playoff contention, Chicago may be tempted to rush Rose back -- and Rose may want to rush back as well.

With Granger out and the Pacers weakened, the Bulls' playoff chances are increased -- and this could afford Rose more time to rehabilitate his injured knee.

Indiana and Chicago are set to meet twice in December -- and the Bulls could be facing a team in transition and learning how to play without Granger.