NBA Rumors: Chicago Bulls Should Not Rush Derrick Rose Back from Injury

Derrick Rose wants to return to the court on Sunday, but considering he is concerned about aggravating his injury, rushing back could do him more harm than good.

The point guard has been out the last 12 games with a groin injury, and the Chicago Bulls are 8-4 during that stretch.

While there is definitely a drop in performance without Rose in the lineup, the team does not need him back just yet.

The Bulls currently hold a 2.5 game lead over the Miami Heat for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Last night, Luol Deng led an impressive win over the streaking Celtics.

Chicago has plenty of talent and is good enough on defense to maintain their lead over the Heat in the standings. 

The worst thing that could happen is the Bulls fall to second place, and they have to win a road playoff game with the help of a healthy Rose.

On the other hand, rushing a player back from a groin injury could be very dangerous. If he goes too hard too soon, he could re-aggravate the injury and be out even longer than necessary.

With 10 games left in the regular season, there is plenty of time to wait until he is 100 percent and still be able to get back up to game speed.

The team has a much better chance at winning a postseason series without home-court advantage and with their MVP than to have to deal with the converse scenario.

This period without Rose also provides more opportunities for the bench to gain confidence from extended playing time. 

C.J. Watson has been getting better every game, and John Lucas is playing like he can become a valuable piece in the playoffs. 

There is no reason for Rose to come back until he is absolutely ready. In the long run, this is really the only solution.