May 8, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose stretches before game two of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

Most don’t expect Derrick Rose to make it back to the Chicago Bulls lineup this season, after he missed the whole regular season due to a torn ACL. However, Rose has kept saying that he wouldn’t be working as hard as he currently does if he had already made the decision not to come back this season, and thus the Bulls fans still have a glimmer of hope left.

Rose sat out game 2 against the Miami Heat, but he was shooting before the game like he usually does. At this point, it certainly seems as though game 3 is somewhat of a deadline for Rose. Chicago are coming back home after splitting the series in Miami, and if Rose was to make an appearance, the atmosphere would be absolutely spectacular.

If he doesn’t return for game 3, it would hardly make sense to come back for game 4, 5 or perhaps even 6.

Rose has been criticized for his cautious approach with his injury, but you really can’t blame him. He might have been medically cleared for months, but being cleared by the Chicago Bulls medical staff really doesn’t mean that much.

The moment of truth is coming up this Friday.

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@VytisLasaitis

Jan 4, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (13) during a game against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Some good (and bad) news for the Chicago Bulls fans – Joakim Noah is good to go and should play between 20-25 minutes in game 3 on Thursday. Noah has been struggling with a foot injury and has not quite been himself, but he played quite well in game 2 and propelled the Bulls to a victory.

Noah doing all right. Thibs expects same amount of minutes. Likely 20-25. DRose officially ruled out.

— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) April 25, 2013

While Noah will be ready for the playoff opener in Chicago, Derrick Rose is once again ruled out. Many people doubt whether Rose will bother getting back on the court this year, even though he has been medically cleared to play.

The first-round series between the Brooklyn Nets and the Bulls are tied at one a piece.

@VytisLasaitis