Derrick Rose could play if season began now

Derrick Rose got off crutches, practiced with the Bulls and biked around Washington, D.C.

Now, he’s capable of doing something he’s done just 10 times in the last 780 days.

K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune:

Rose has had no setbacks and, if the season started tomorrow, would be fine to play.

Rose will have a few months to prepare for the season, but if he’s already ready, that bodes well. With two first-round picks, the flexibility to pursue Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Love and Rose getting healthy, the Bulls could improve greatly this offseason.

Of all Chicago’s possible changes, Rose might be the biggest wildcard. It’s just been so long since he’s played at an elite level.

If he’s truly ready to roll, Rose won’t need to wait until training camp to really test his knee. He’s a strong candidate to represent the United State in the FIBA World Cup this summer.

Heck, if he’s as healthy as Johnson says, Rose is essentially a lock to make the team.