Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose hasn't ruled out returning to play in the postseason, provided his surgically repaired knee is healthy enough. Despite major injuries to both his knees, Rose insisted his playing style won't change when he returns, ESPN reports.
The Bulls announced Rose would miss the season after the All-Star underwent surgery on Nov. 25 on the torn meniscus in his right knee. Despite the team's ruling, Rose admitted there's a chance he could come back in time for the playoffs.
"If I'm healthy and the situation is right, I'm going to be back playing," Rose said on Thursday during a news conference, via ESPN. "If I'm healthy and my meniscus is fully healed, of course I'll be out there playing. But if it's something totally different and the outcome is not how I would want it to be, there's no need."
Rose, who missed the entire 2012-13 season after tearing his ACL, is now rehabbing from his second major knee surgery. While the injuries may cause some to criticize how Rose plays, the 2011 MVP doesn't believe he will have to temper his aggressive style.
"That's the way that I play," said Rose. "I play a unique way of playing basketball, and I can't change that. ... I believe I am a special player.
"I think people love the way that I just play. I don't try to impress anyone while I'm playing or anything. It's just the way that I play. I've just got a feel for the game, and I know my story is far from done. I know it is."
As for those who question whether Rose can still be a franchise player?
"You can be a fool if you want to. Dead serious," said Rose. "I know I'm going to be all right. I believe that I'm a special player."
