Our Franchise Guy Holding Back the Franchise

The definition of a franchise player: A player who the team cannot live without.

At 21-years-old, Derrick Rose is that guy, so his lingering injury that’s supposed to be “day-to-day” may yet define the 2009-2010 season. An inflamed tendon usually doesn’t go away over night.

It’s the type of nagging injury that tends to linger throughout the season, and for a player that depends on his explosive athleticism as much as his technique and instincts, this cannot be a good thing.

When media reports that he may not suit up on opening night, it’s probable that he won’t.

And while the Bulls are clearly not a championship team, we’re anxious to see if Rose is about to take that next step. More than an all-star, more than a team leader, but unequivocally an elite, blue-chip player in the NBA.
Is it that asking too much? UnderVinny DelNegro?

Great players excel no matter the circumstance; they don’t always win championships, but they show their pedigree, their superior ability no matter where they play and for whom.

Can he knock down the 3?

Can he emulate what we consider to be defense?

Can he post up, stand in block and back down other points?

The off-season was supposed to answer these questions. Now, we’ll have to wait longer.