Derrick Rose Open to Returning During Playoffs

Contrary to the growing belief that Derrick Rose will wait until next season to return, the Chicago Bulls superstar point guard insists that it’s entirely possible he will make his season debut at some point in the NBA Playoffs. Per the Chicago Tribune: “Oh, no,’ Rose said, when asked if he’d announce he’s sitting out this season. ‘I’m keeping it open.’ The Bulls have six regular-season games remaining. ‘I’m not trying to think about that right now,’ Rose said. ‘I’m just trying to get better. I’m just trying to help my teammates, give them confidence to go out there and play hard. I’ll play whenever I’m ready to play. Who knows when I’m ready to? Right now, all I can do is just cheer on my teammates.’ Rose first scrimmaged on Feb. 18 and has said whether he returns is as much a mental hurdle as a physical one at this point. Playing on a minutes limit wouldn’t bother him. ‘I wouldn’t mind at all,’ he said. ‘Of course I want to play more. But it’s not that big. I’m going to play whenever I’m ready. I don’t care if it’s 15 or 40 (minutes). I just love the game too much. I’m just waiting and praying about it. And hopefully I’ll be out there soon.'”