Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau has defended his guard Derrick Rose amidst issues of his health and his injuries. He asked everyone to be more patient of the star and that he will soon comeback as his old self.
Thibodeau said "He's navigating through coming back off of 2 1/2 years off. It's a lot. I think everyone has to take a step back and be patient and let him go through this process. He's going to be special again, just be patient."
He adds "For him [Rose], don't get wrapped up whether it's criticism or praise. Don't get wrapped up in either one of those things. The only person he really has to answer to is himself. Knowing that you have put everything you have into each and every day, given everything you have to the team to win. That's all you can do, once you do that you should be good. You should never feel any pressure or anything for that matter. Just commit to the team and winning. When he does that it'll work out fine."
Rose has said that his decision to sit out on several games this season is for his healthy future ahead. But many disapprove of his choice as he should be thinking of the present; helping the team win an NBA championship this year.
Thibodeau commented "He's a lightning rod right now. The same people that were praising him in his MVP year are the ones that are criticizing him now and, when he starts playing great again, will be the same people praising him again."
"He's healthy now, so hopefully he can string some games together, go out and play as hard as he can."
Rose has played in just 10 games over the previous two seasons because of a left ACL tear and torn right meniscus. Rose spoke of his realization after being away from the game for quite some time. He realized the importance of being true to himself which is also seconded by his coach.
Thibodeau said "I think most guys at some point or another, they're going to get hit with something that they have to get past. Unfortunately for him it was two consecutive injuries, two consecutive years. I think for him the only way to approach it is the way he's approached it: You have to look at it as really seeing some growth, how to get past it, keep grinding away."
