The Chicago Bulls have no choice but to forge ahead without Derrick Rose, but his recovery and eventual return will loom large over the franchise until he finally steps back onto an NBA floor. But, according to Chicago general manager Gar Forman, the Bulls aren't planning on that being next season, confirming that it's a longshot that Rose will see the court before the fall of 2013.
"We're hopeful at some point he'll be back," Forman said. "I'm not sure we'll make plans as if he will be, but we're optimistic he will be at some point."
(via Chicago Sun-Times)
That said, Dr. Brian Cole told Neil Hayes of the Sun-Times that he won't unilaterally hold Rose out of game action next season. If Rose's rehab progresses quickly, Cole said that he could see the floor if only to boost his confidence and to remind himself that his surgically repaired knee is stable and healthy. According to Cole, the mental aspect of rehab can for some players be as difficult as the physical.
Cole also outlined a rough schedule for how Rose's rehab might progress: running, light basketball activities (i.e. shooting) in up to four months, then cutting and absorbing contact, which could happen by January. At that point, Rose could be cleared to return to practice with the Bulls.
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