March 10--Derrick Rose offered no assurance that he will return this season, saying there's a "good chance" but that he'd "listen to (his) body."
During a 12-minute session with the media before Monday's game with the Grizzlies, Rose said the whole episode might be a "blessing in disguise" because his right knee is now pain-free.
But that won't do much to appease Bulls fans, especially if the star point guard declines to play again until next season.
"Whenever I'm ready to come back, I'll come back," he said.
The Tribune has reported all along that Rose is expected to return this season.
Team physical Brian Cole performed the 15-minute procedure Feb. 27 on the torn medial meniscus in Rose's right knee. The damaged part was removed, and Rose walked out of surgery, able to bear his full weight.
General manager Gar Forman called it "minor" surgery and predicted Rose would be back in action in 4-6 weeks -- late March or early April. The Bulls' final regular-season game is April 15.
Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said Rose, who can't jump yet but took shots on the United Center floor Monday afternoon, is "right on schedule. This week he will ramp it up some. Hopefully he'll be able to get back quickly."
The Bulls have struggled in Rose's absence, which has coincided with injuries to Jimmy Butler and Taj Gibson.
Asked if he feels pressure to return, Rose replied: "No pressure at all. We have a great team. If anything, my teammates are telling me to take my time."
tgreenstein@tribpub.com
