Return Date Set for Chicago Bulls Derrick Rose

The Chicago Bulls preseason opener on October 12 against the Washington Wizards in Rio de Janeiro may just have become the most highly anticipated meaningless game in recent history. Why? Because it will feature the return of the Windy City's favorite son--Derrick Rose.

His return--or more when his return would happen--has been the talk of the town for months. Rose was medically cleared to play towards the tail end of the 2012-13 regular season, but said he would play when he felt ready.

Much to the chagrin of the Bulls Nation he didn't feel ready as the team made a nice run into the playoffs.

Since the season ended we have been hearing nothing, but good things about Rose. In June Bulls Head Coach Tom Thibodeau said Rose was looking more like his old self again giving fans further hope. According to HoopsHype while making an appearance in Madrid Rose went ahead and shared the news.

On one hand the news is a little anticlimactic. After such a long layoff it is understandable to think that it is about da** time. However, at the same time it never hurts to hear it from the horse's mouth. This way we know that he feels confident in his knee and his game, and we will likely see the old Rose and not a timid one afraid of getting hurt again.

So Bulls fans, it looks like you have plenty to make your travel plans if you want to be there!