For those who still are critical of Derrick Rose’s decision to sit out the season with the torn left anterior cruciate ligament that occurred in the first game of the 2012 playoffs, coach Tom Thibodeau had a message for them Saturday: “In my eyes, Derrick has earned the benefit of the doubt.’’ Even with the MVP point guard overseas on a promotional tour, Thibodeau has spoken to him on a regular basis, and looking back on 2013, he called Rose’s decision “smart.’’ “Derrick has been a terrific player for us, a superstar who has been a great guy,’’ Thibodeau said. “He’s an honest guy. If he says he’s not ready to go, he’s not ready to go. “You have to trust him, and I think we all have to trust him. Once he gets started, our fans will be behind him, they’ll be behind the team.’’ When Rose returns from his tour, he will work out in Los Angeles. He has another promotional tour in China and will return to Chicago in mid-September. Read more http://www.suntimes.com/sports/bask...rned-the-benefit-of-the-doubt-thibs-says.html
Thibodeau's right about most fans having short memories, but there are those who still hold that 1.8 seconds against Pippen.
He's working out in LA? I guess he'll be a Laker after the fans drive him out of town. I don't get it. He gets the benefit of the doubt from me. Nada problemo, as they say in LA.
I think his image has taken a hit. If he wins a title or another MVP, all will be forgiven. Bad PR management on the part of his team. The org also did him no favors by leaking the "physically cleared to play" and by marketing him throughout the year. Mismanaged on all fronts. The 1.8 is a good point... but Pippen is beloved b/c of all the championships and his overall play. I wonder how that would have been handled though in today's modern media environment. Would have been a lot rougher for Pip IMO.
It would be great if we could stop insisting that people live up to our ideals, and enjoy more the process of seeing people grow and develop in the way they perform. To me, Pippen is a hero, because of what he did overcome. He wasn't perfect, but he became a great player, even as a leader. You don't grow without making mistakes. But we have a habit of crucifying first, and then appreciating later. I don't think this is a modern phenomenon. Derrick has made some mistakes. He'll make some more. I hope and pray he learns from them, and is able to enjoy all the accolades that come from later success--hopefully with the Bulls!
