There are multiple reports and rumors circulating as to why Derrick Rose hasn’t returned to the Bulls lineup even though he’s been medically cleared to return to action.
Several reports have circulated in regards to Rose and the Bulls feuding over who leaked the information regarding his being cleared for action.
ESPN Chicago is now reporting that Rose has continued to sit out because of lingering hamstring issues.
ESPN’s Doris Burke spoke with the former MVP before Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers and reported that although Rose has been taking full contact in practice for well over a month, his hamstrings are “on fire” after those workouts. Rose added that he won’t return to the court until he’s past those issues.
A team source told ESPNChicago.com on Friday that one reason why Rose has been hesitant to play despite being medically cleared is because he still is struggling to dunk the same way off his surgically repaired left knee.
Tom Thibodeau for his part has constantly reiterated the same statements when it comes to Rose and his return.
“We’ll cross that bridge when we get there,” Thibodeau said before the game. “For us right now the guys that are playing have to concentrate on their improvement and our next opponent. Derrick has to concentrate on his rehab. And until that changes that’s the way it has to be and that’s the way we’re approaching it.”