Bulls’ Derrick Rose will play Friday, could be cleared for season opener

Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose (orbital fracture) will play in his first preseason game of the year on Friday, and could suit up for the team’s season opener on Oct. 27 if all goes well, head coach Fred Hoiberg told reporters.

Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose (orbital fracture) will play in his first preseason game of the year on Friday, and could suit up for the team’s season opener on Tuesday if all goes well, head coach Fred Hoiberg told reporters.

Rose, who has been dealing with swelling after undergoing surgery to repair his left eye socket, will play around seven to 10 minutes against the Dallas Mavericks, first with the second unit, then with the starters.

“I’m excited,” Rose said. “I don’t know how I’m going to play. But I’m just happy to be running around and get a groove for the game.”

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The 27-year-old had surgery after he was elbowed near the eye in practice on Sept. 29. He was fitted for a mask, and returned to non-contact activity in mid-October. He is still experiencing double-vision in his left eye.

Over the past four years, Rose has been plagued by various knee injuries. After playing 81 games and earning MVP honors in 2010–11, and playing 39 games in the lockout-shortened 2011–12 season, he has played just 61 games over the last three years, with 51 coming in 2014–15.

- Kenny Ducey