Former NBA forward Scottie Pippen has said that he expects Derrick Rose to have an "MVP-type of year" after watching his performance for the Chicago Bulls in their opening game of the season.
The point guard, who missed all of last season while recovering from an ACL injury, scored 12 points during the 107-95 defeat to the Miami Heat earlier this week.
Pippen, who had two stints with the Bulls, told the team's website: "Derrick has a serious injury behind him now but the rehabilitation in a way never ends, especially when you want to play at a high level and be the best. I think it will help as he continues to mature and understand what is most important to him.
"I expect this to be an MVP-type of year for Derrick because I think he has a bit of a chip on his shoulder after missing a whole season and dealing with everything.
"He wants to prove that his judgment was the right one. And I don't think anyone can disagree with him at this point. I think he's come back a lot stronger physically and mentally. He's also better off in terms of understanding what he has to do moving forward."
Rose was named MVP for the 2010-11 season, when he averaged 25 points per game for Chicago.
Sian Cowper
