On Nov. 22, Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Derrick Rose decided to take an excused leave of absence to contemplate his future in the NBA. The former league MVP, who is also dealing with an ankle injury, has since returned to the team, but not much is known about his status.
Exactly when Rose, now 29 years of age, might be able to play again remains to be seen. There were some who thought he might be dealing with a bout of depression, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. He’s just been focused on his rehabilitation process.
“Be patient. I’m good. I’m just taking my time,” Rose recently told The Undefeated. “You don’t have to worry about me. I’m not depressed. I’m good. A lot of people think I’m depressed because of what I’m going through. It’s the total opposite. I learned from my mistakes three or four years ago when I put myself into a shell.
“And now that I am in this position, it’s only right that I learn from the best. I’m staying with my team, staying with my family, communicating and just being open.”
In his 64 games played for the New York Knicks last season, Rose turned in averages of 18.0 points on 47 percent shooting from the field, 4.4 assists, and 3.8 rebounds.
When asked how his body is feeling now, Rose gave a confident reply.
“It’s feeling good, Rose said. “I am trying to take it one day at a time. I appreciate everything. I’m mindful of everything. I’m just staying in my routine that I’ve been doing for the last 10 years.”
Though this is certainly promising news, it sounds like Cavs fans will just have to wait a bit longer for Rose’s return.