Derrick Rose is looking to return to the court this friday against Puerto Rico. Knee soreness has kept the USA Basketball star from playing the previous game on Wednesday but despite critics saying he has fear of playing, Rose is stepping out and hoping to dominate the game.
According to CBS Sports, Rose says he’s just trying to ease his way back into playing basketball being that this is the most he’s played in two years.
“Just trying to protect myself, just knowing that this is a long, long schedule and this is the most basketball I’ll be playing in two years,” Rose said. “So I’m just going in, trying to gear up, making sure that I’m healthy….”
Coach Thibodeau also had comments regarding Rose:
“We went in with the idea that as long as he’s feeling good, he’s going to play,” Thibodeau said. “He’s got to play at some point. Basically, he’s been out for three years, so he’s got to play. This is a great setting for him because of the depth of the team. … He doesn’t have to play a lot of minutes. He doesn’t have the burden; doesn’t have to score big. He just has to go out and play –- find the rhythm of the game, run the team. It’s ideal for him, but if he needs rest, we’re going to give him rest.”
Rose has been taking the patient route in his return to NBA dominance. Fans and critics alike have been awaiting for Rose to become the star we all anticipated for him to be. With the NBA season looming in the near future, it s probably smart for Rose to take the safe way and protect his body for what looks like a competitive Eastern Conference.
