In his first public comments since returning from a mysterious absence from the Cavaliers, Derrick Rose told reporters on Saturday (AEDT) that he has a bone spur in his left ankle, which may require a procedure if rehab doesn’t fix the issue.
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Derrick Rose, speaking to the media for the first time since his return to the Cavs, revealed he has a bone spur in his left ankle and acknowledged that a procedure may be necessary if his rehab does not take.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) December 8, 2017
Rose rejoined the Cavaliers on Tuesday (AEDT) after going AWOL about two weeks ago.
Upon his return, he apologised to his teammates and cited frustration about his ankle as the reason for his absence.
Rose has played in just seven games this season, averaging 14.3 points on 47.0 percent shooting, 2.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists. The Cavs are 4-3 in those games.
A sprained ankle sustained in Cleveland’s October 21 game against the Bucks sidelined Rose four games, but he returned for the next five.
The Cavs lost to Houston in their first game after he deserted the team but have won 13 straight since.
Jose Calderon has been handling starting point guard duties for the absent-if-not-injured Rose, and with Isaiah Thomas (hip) expected to be ready to within three weeks, Rose’s prominent role with the Cavaliers seems tenuous, even if he does get healthy.