Chicago Bulls fans are still hoping that Derrick Rose will make an unexpected return at some point this season, but reports on Tuesday suggested that the All-Star point guard will still likely miss the entire season.
Rose, who sustained a torn medial meniscus in his right knee earlier in the season, is reportedly doing well in his rehabilitation. Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau does not expect the former MVP to return this season, but the defensive-minded coach is still open to any eventuality.
Thibodeau said that Rose has been very patient in his rehab and has been participating in team shootaround regularly, but he dismissed recent rumors suggesting that the 24-year-old point guard could practice with the team soon.
"Most likely not, but we'll see. He's out for the year, but he's doing great," Thibodeau told ESPN Chicago when asked whether or not Rose will return this season. "He's running on a treadmill. Making a shot here or there, he's doing well. He's doing fine. He's still nowhere close to practicing or anything like that, but he's doing well overall."
Bulls center Joakim Noah also said that Rose has been working hard to recover from the latest setback he absorbed coming off a long layoff due to an ACL injury.
Rose has been travelling with the team for the past several weeks and has been sitting on their bench during their past few games. Noah said that Rose's presence alone makes them extra motivated to work hard and try to defy the tall odds they are facing this season.
"He's working really hard," Noah said on Rose. "He's always around the team, being a great leader, showing support to his teammates and just watching him work every day. I think it's just extra motivation for us to go out there and go harder."
Rose previously indicated that he could consider returning in the playoffs if given the opportunity and if he feels the need to do so. When asked about his thoughts on Rose's possible playoff return, Noah said that he is not sure about it, but he will support whatever Rose's decision will be.
