Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf denies front office rift with Derrick Rose
Earlier yesterday, a report in the Chicago Sun-Times spoke on the rumors of a riff between Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls’ front office. According to the report, sources revealed the tension began once Rose’s camp took shots at the Bulls front office during contract negotiations.
Following the Sun-Times report, Chicago Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf immediately fired back, vehemently denying the report in a statement released by the team.
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“I am confounded by the irresponsible report in the Chicago Sun-Times suggesting there is anything approaching discord or confusion between the Bulls executive office, coaching staff, and Derrick Rose or any other Bulls player,” said Resinsdorf. “To the contrary, I can remember no time when the organization has been any more focused, optimistic, and cohesive. I’ve got to assume suggestions otherwise are intended to undermine the goals and objectives, spirit, and reputation of the Chicago Bulls.”
“I am deeply disappointed that unnamed sources and totally inaccurate statements and assumptions can be used to foment nonexistent friction. The report is totally without basis or fact. It is pure malicious fiction.”
These rumors of a riff between the Bulls and their marquee star are far from new. During the times of Derrick Rose’s expected return during the 2013 NBA playoffs. Even then the two sides refuted any reports on the tension, but with Rose speaking on the matter, it appears that it is a true issue.
“The report is totally without basis or fact. It is pure malicious fiction.” – Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf
“I know it’s been there,’’ Rose told the Sun-Times. “I heard there were some upset people. I’m happy I didn’t personally see it. I don’t want to see that. I kind of wonder where it was coming from because it seemed like whenever I was around, everything was all right. It bothered me because when I wasn’t around, I would hear from certain people that everything wasn’t all right.’’
Things may be pushed on the backburner now, but when Rose’s free agency arises, we’ll see if this is truly an issue–one that could possibly affect his return to the Chicago Bulls.