Former All-Star point guard Derrick Rose will report to the Cleveland Cavaliers after being away from the team as he mulled about whether to continue his NBA career or not. According to Cavaliers general manager Koby Altman, the team will provide Rose with needed support and patience as he goes through a very challenging and difficult time in his career. David Aldridge of TNT reported that the 29-year-old Rose will resume treatment and rehabilitation on his injured left ankle at the team’s practice facility.
However, the Cavaliers have given no timetable for his return.
Rose has been limited by injuries to seven games this season, averaging a career-low 14.3 points and 1.7 assists per game. Last month, Rose left the team as he dealt with frustration over his latest injuries. Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN earlier reported that Rose’s injuries have taken their toll on the point guard mentally, leaving him pondering his NBA future. Since he won the 2011 MVP trophy, Rose’s career has been derailed by a rash of injuries, including a torn ACL that affected his speed on the court.
James said Cavs ready to act as shield for Rose
According to superstar LeBron James, the Cavaliers will not rush Rose into returning to the team because of what he’s going through. “You don't ever fast-track someone's process of what they may be going through,” said James, adding that he’s ready to offer his advice and support when Rose is ready to talk about it. James also wants Rose to be great in terms of physical and mental aspects before he returns to playing. “We’re going to be a shield for him if he wants to use us,” said James. Dwyane Wade, for his part, expects Rose to have a heart-to-heart talk with some of his teammates at some point to open up about what’s he’s going through. Without Rose, James has been handling the ball for the Cavaliers’ first unit while Wade has been working as point guard for the second unit.
Aside from Rose, the Cavaliers are also waiting for the return of point guard Isaiah Thomas, who is rehabilitating from a hip injury that he suffered last season.
Tyronn Lue happy with Rose’s return
Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue said he was elated with the return of Rose to the team. “We're happy to have him back,” Lue said, per Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com. “Glad he's back. Glad he's in a good place and he started his rehab today.” While the Cavaliers did not release a timetable for Rose’s return, Lue said he expects Rose to be out for a “couple more weeks.” According to Lue, he has spoken to some of his players about Rose’s situation, with many saying they wanted the point guard back. Lue also refused to say how Rose would fit with the team upon his return.