Unless there are any major setbacks, Derrick Rose expects to play against the New York Knicks this Sunday. I’m sure Stacey King has missed saying “it’s MVP Time” I know I have missed hearing it!

Today was his first full practice, and Rose said his spirits are high and his teammates are eager and optimistic for his return. Coach Tom Thibodeau still has him listed as a “game time decision” as he’s not taking any chances with his star player.

“He just has to keep making the progress that he’s making,” Thibodeau told CSNChicago.com. “He’s practiced well, hasn’t had any problems the next day and as long as it stays that way, hopefully, he’ll be ready.”

Rose has missed 12 straight games since injuring his groin against the Knicks March 12th. Many people do not realize how serious pulling a groin muscle can be, but it is one of the lengthiest recovery processes for a “minor injury.”

The end decision is in Rose’s hands, “It’s really not up to him, it’s up to me,” said Rose. “If I’m feeling good, I’m going to play, if I think that I need some more days [of rest], than I’m going to take some more days, but more than likely, I’ll be out there [Sunday].”

As long as he’s healthy, the sooner we can get Rose out there the better. Preventing any rustiness come playoff time is key. The Bulls have just 10 games remaining in the regular season and Sunday’s matchup could be a potential glimpse the Bulls’ first round opponents as the Knicks are trying to hold off the Milwaukee Bucks for the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference.