Former Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose does not want to remain on the sidelines as he aims to play today, Tuesday, against the Portland Trail Blazers after missing their last two games with an ankle sprain. 

Rose suffered the injury in their close 96–95 win over the Indiana Pacers last Nov. 16. 

The 27-year-old did not play in their next two games which saw them win over the Phoenix Suns (103–97) and lose to the defending champions Golden State Warriors (106–94). 

But Rose had a great practice last Sunday and said, according to ESPN, "Being able to run around today, and I had a great workout [Saturday] and I had another workout today after we got done practicing so I'm heading in the right direction ... that's what I'm aiming for, Tuesday, for sure."

In the report, Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg was also optimistic regarding Rose's current situation and mentioned the latter's ability to shoot in practice despite having an ankle woe, which was a good thing, according to the coach. 

This season, Rose has only missed two games and is averaging 13.6 points, three rebounds, and six assists per contest. 

The sprain is the second major health setback Rose had this year, as he started the season coming off a surgery from an orbital fracture suffered in the first day of their training camp back in September. 

Along with injuries, Rose has had struggles this season, especially with his shooting and inconsistent performance. There are nights when he went on scoring tears, but there are also games, especially early in the season, wherein he recorded single-digit performances. 

Despite his struggles, the Bulls are still thriving in the Eastern Conference sitting on the third spot with an 8–4 record. Above them are conference leaders the Cleveland Cavaliers (11–3), followed by the also thriving Miami Heat (9–4).