Derrick Rose sits out some games because he is thinking about long-term health

Derrick Rose has been cautious with his health ever since suffering a major knee injury in 2012 that led him to miss an entire season. Along the way, Rose was criticized by Chicago Bulls fans for delaying his return despite being medically cleared to play.

Rose suffered another major knee injury last year and missed nearly the entire season. He is back now, though he remains cautious with his health.

The former NBA MVP has played in four of the Bulls’ eight games this season and has dealt with a sprained ankle. On Tuesday, he explained his mindset concerning his health. His comments may not sit well with fans.

“I’m thinking about long term. I’m thinking about after I’m done with basketball. Having graduations to go to, having meetings to go to, I don’t want to be in my meetings all sore or be at my son’s graduation all sore just because of something I did in the past. [I’m] just learning and being smart.”

Though Rose’s mindset certainly makes sense, Bulls fans and possibly Bulls players may question the point guard’s attitude. Fans want selfless players who give it all for the team, not guys who are thinking about protecting themselves and their futures. I don’t blame Rose for having this attitude at all. He’s suffered two major knee injuries in two years; he knows how quickly his life can change and he wants to be prepared for that. And if nobody confuses him with Kobe Bryant when it comes to returning from injuries, that’s probably fine by him.