CHICAGO — Derrick Rose has never lacked for confidence. Through two knee surgeries, two lost seasons and unquantifiable criticism and scrutiny, the 2010-11 NBA MVP has been steadfast in his belief that he'll return to form.
Sometimes, that confidence has been brash ("You can be a fool if you want to," he said last December when asked to address his doubters). This time around, it's more of a quiet self-assuredness. By now, he's heard everything, and he knows that nothing he can say will change anybody's mind until he proves it on the court.
Rose played 14 minutes in the Chicago Bulls' preseason opener on Monday, all in the first half, and finished with 11 points on 4-of-7 shooting in the Bulls' 85-81 loss to the Washington Wizards. He knocked down a three-pointer, was aggressive in attacking the basket and looked comfortable doing whatever he decided to do on the court.
Since the Bulls kicked off training camp last week, Rose's message has been one of tempering expectations. He was never worried after his poor performance at last month's FIBA Wor ...
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Article written by Sean Highkin