‘Positive’ Talks With Derrick Rose, Who Might Return Soon

The Cavaliers are reporting “positive” communication with Derrick Rose and he may return to the team soon, according to Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com.

Coach Tyronn Lue and GM Koby Altman both confirmed there has been recent contact with Rose, but didn’t offer any other information. Lue referred questions on the topic to Altman, who promised more information on Sunday.

Rose, who hasn’t played since November 9 because of an injured ankle, left the team 10 days ago to contemplate his future in the NBA. He is reportedly frustrated over a series of injuries that have plagued him over the last several years.

Rose, who agreed to a veterans’ minimum contract in July, played just seven games before the ankle problem struck. He averaged 14.3 points per night, but Cleveland didn’t start winning consistently until he left the lineup.

There’s no guarantee that Rose will have a spot in the rotation if he does return, especially with Isaiah Thomas expected back from his hip injury later this month. Dwyane Wade had taken over point guard duties with the reserves.

LeBron James said earlier today that he hasn’t been in contact with Rose since he left.

“Whenever he’s ready to tell us or whatever, we’re ready for that,” James said. “You don’t ever fast track someone’s process of what they may be going through. When they’re ready to talk about it or ready to bring it to the forefront, as his teammates we’ll be ready for it.”

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