Derrick Rose, who broke his face, is questionable for the Bulls’ regular-season opener.
Just how is he feeling?
K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune:
Rose said he hasn't had pain since first couple days, has to let bone heal.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 15, 2015
Rose said "who knows" when asked if he'll be ready for Opening Night.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 15, 2015
Rose confirms Gibson's elbow broke bone.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 15, 2015
Rose: "I can’t open my other eye. That’s when I get double vision. But with one eye open, I think I could play pretty good."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 15, 2015
Hoiberg was encouraged by how much Rose was able to do today. Full speed. No contact.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 15, 2015
Is Rose ruling out Opening Night? "I wouldn’t say that. If I’m willing to go and I know there’s nothing in my way, I’ll play."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 15, 2015
Rose on mask: "When I first put it on it was a little uncomfortable, but through practice I got more comfortable with it. It feels alright."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 15, 2015
Rose on mask: "I took the one that is kind of similar to Westbrook’s where it doesn’t have anything guarding the nose. I can breathe better"
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 15, 2015
How long for mask? "I hate getting my face touched so if I’m feeling it and we’re playing good, you might see it for the rest of my career"
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 15, 2015
Rose trying to play with one eye closed seems like a bad idea. The Bulls should – and probably will – be patient with him.
If Rose isn’t ready by opening night, it sounds like he will be shortly after.
I’d also be shocked if Rose wears a mask the rest of his career, though he did play with Richard Hamilton. So, maybe Rose knows something about the advantages to always donning a mask.