For a long time, the Chicago Bulls were considered Derrick Rose’s team only. With an MVP and a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals, the CBA had to create the “Derrick Rose Rule” in order for Rose to be compensated the way he deserved. However, three major knee surgeries later and one new Allstars emergence, it seems as if it’s no longer only Derrick Rose’s team and the players know it.
Butler on whether it’s his team: “Do I agree? Nah. I can’t do it by myself. Neither can (Rose). Nobody can.”
— Vincent Goodwill (@vgoodwill) September 28, 2015
Butler has again started campaigning himself to play the point guard position. Butler, age 26, has quickly emerged as the face of the franchise alongside Derrick Rose. The sudden growth of Jimmy Butler warranted the Bulls to offer him a maximum deal this summer in order to keep the 30th overall pick of 2011.
Rumors began to surface of tension growing between Rose and Butler after they lost to the Cavaliers in Game 6 of the playoffs. Both players have refuted the rumors, however both also agree they don’t spend much time together off the court. Both players spent their time in California working out this summer, but haven’t worked out with each other. With the growth of Jimmy Butler and the health of Derrick Rose still uncertain, it’s starting to become more apparent to the players that this is Jimmy Butler’s team alongside Derrick Rose’s as well.
With Derrick Rose’s health up in the air, it was time for the Bulls organization to go out and find him help. It seemed every year that Reggie Rose insisted the Bulls find his younger brother help. The Bulls struck gold when they drafted Jimmy Butler at the 30th overall pick in 2011. Both Sports Illustrated and ESPN ranked Jimmy Butler among the elite players; that’s something Rose should be thankful for since his brother advocated for help for a long time.
