On Monday morning, the Cleveland Cavaliers officially announced that former MVP Derrick Rose will make his return to the team to begin rehabbing his injured left ankle.
As most hoops fans know, Rose, now 29 years of age, had been on an excused leave from the Cavs for quite some time. After mulling over his future in the NBA, it seems as though the crafty ball-handler isn’t willing to throw in the proverbial towel just yet.
“Starting on Monday, December 4, Cavaliers guard Derrick Rose will resume the treatment and rehabilitation process for his left ankle injury at Cleveland Clinic Courts as the next step in his return to the team. Rose’s status will be updated as appropriate when he reaches the point of returning to play.”
Cavs head coach Tryonn Lue has always expected Rose to return to the team. And in fact, Lue said the former No. 1 overall pick in the Draft could take as long as he needed to gather his thoughts.
After Saturday night’s 116-111 win over the Memphis Grizzlies, Lue and Cavs general manager Koby Altman hinted that they had been in “positive communications” with Rose. However, they would not comment any further on the situation at that time.
Altman released an official statement with regards to Rose’s return on Monday morning.
“This has been a very challenging and difficult time for Derrick. We will continue to provide him with support and have patience as he re-joins his teammates and works his way back on to the court.”
The Cavs, winners of 11 consecutive games (longest active streak in the NBA) will be back in action on Monday night when they face off against the Chicago Bulls inside the United Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. with Fox Sports Ohio and WGN having live broadcast coverage.