Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose will return to the lineup against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday, reports K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune. Coach Tom Thibodeau told reporters Rose's return is set "barring [a] setback" before tip-off.
Derrick Rose expected to return to Bulls’ lineup vs. Magic
Rose returns to the Bulls just in time for the postseason after undergoing knee surgery on Feb. 27.
Rose confirmed the plan for him to return, saying he’s been “busting his ass” to get healthy before the regular season ends. He was optimistic that the time off will make him fresher for the postseason.
Rose underwent surgery on Feb. 27 to remove the damaged part of his torn right meniscus. It was the third major knee surgery for Rose since May 2012, and the second time in two seasons he needed surgery for a torn right meniscus. Last season, the 26-year-old opted to have the meniscus repaired in November, which resulted in him missing the rest of the year.
Prior to going under the knife again this season, Rose played 46 games and averaged 18 points and five assists. He struggled with his efficiency, shooting just under 41 percent overall and 29 percent from three.
The Bulls went 10-10 in Rose's absence, a time that also featured injuries to Jimmy Butler and Taj Gibson. Now Chicago is healthy, however, and the emergence of rookie Nikola Mirotic gives the team another legitimate scoring threat. If Rose can quickly shake off the rust and find a rhythm, the Bulls will be dangerous in the postseason.
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