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Years ago
Derrick Rose to suit for morale, unlikely to play
On April 28 of last season, Derrick Rose tore his ACL and hasn't played in an NBA game since. The Chicago Bulls, without Rose, earned the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference and defeated the Brooklyn Nets in the first round. One game into the second round, the Bulls hold a one-game lead over the defending champion Miami Heat.
Now, the Bulls may have Rose back on the bench with his uniform on, according to Hoopsworld’s Alex Kennedy.
Word out of Chicago is that Rose may suit up for Game 3, which will be played this Friday. Suiting up doesn’t guarantee that Rose will play, but being in uniform on the bench rather than donning a suit would be a step forward for the 24-year-old.
Considering all of the ailments that the various Chicago Bulls are suffering — Kirk Hinrich’s calf, Luol Deng with meningitis, and Joakim Noah’s plantar fasciitis — having Rose back in uniform would be a huge boost.
It looks like Rose would only be used in emergency situations, but Game 3 would be in Chicago in front of the home crowd. The emotional boost the team would receive from the roar of the crowd at the United Center would be just as helpful as Rose’s athletic abilities, especially considering the opponent.
Rose has been cleared to play for the last two months, but he still hasn’t seen the court despite hinting at a possible return on multiple occasions. He has been practicing with the team, including full contact, full court activities.
It hasn’t been said whether or not he will suit up for sure in Game 3, but it’s beginning to look like a real possibility.
Source: Sportscity.com
