Originally published 7/30/2014
The JerzeeWorld Report archives will show an article I wrote last May talking about Rose's inevitable return from his 1st knee surgery (torn left ACL). As an optimistic fan of the Bulls, I too had my doubts about why Rose didn't attempt to comeback at the end of the 2012-13 season (or in the playoffs). The reality was that if he wasn't able to contribute close to 40 minutes a night at an MVP level his team would've succumbed to the same fate at the hands of the Miami Heat. That, in my opinion, would've been asking too much of a guy you expect to carry your franchise for the next 10-12 NBA seasons. He was absolutely raked across the coals for deciding against it and doing what not only was best for him and HIS career but what is best for the organization writing his check. His mental toughness was questioned. His heart and desire was questioned. After dealing with a whole summer of "why didn't he help his team when they needed him?", Rose pushed his physical limitations to the max and was determined to be ready for 2013-14.
It's funny how Rose was attacked by the masses for not coming back when people felt he should have (when the decision is ultimately up to him). Some of these same individuals scoffed at the notion of him competing for a spot on Team USA in Las Vegas this week. Forget the fact that he's been playing competitive 5 on 5 basketball for months. Forget the fact that he's been one of the most impressive players in camp (as told by players, coaches and members of the media). The skeptics would rather question why he's doing it saying "He should be focused on getting ready for the Bulls upcoming season" or "What if he gets hurt again?". In reality, he IS getting ready for the upcoming season by testing his stamina and getting his wind back in addition to knocking off the rust that can build up from just playing 10 regular season games in the last 2 seasons. The fact that he can attack this opportunity with NO physical limitations or restrictions is encouraging and should be looked at as a good thing. First you crush him for NOT coming back when you felt he should and NOW you want to treat him like the Bulls should just keep him in "bubble wrap" until NBA training camp this fall? Unrealistic expectations set by people who ultimately don't matter in the grand scheme. The bottom line is he was bound to step back out on the floor for the world to see at some point. Why not gauge where you are against the best possible competition (if anything, at least at your position)? There is no harm in being cautious and concerned but let's not be ridiculous about it. What some fail to realize is that Rose is only 25 and one of the most gifted athletes to ever play the point guard position if not in the league period. His career isn't to be compared to Andrew Bynum and Greg Oden and is no where close to being over. I applaud Rose for not buckling under the immense pressure to comeback before HE felt his body was ready to endure the physical pounding it's due to take (due to his style of play). I ultimately look forward to how much his game has grown, from an IQ standpoint, being able to see the game from a coaches perspective these past few seasons and how he will adjust his game (with all the offensive firepower at his disposal). This too is reason for excitement. All of the skeptics that are waiting to see Rose get through a full season, I understand that also but know to that even that has to start somewhere and that somewhere is now...
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