Chicago Bulls' All-Star guard optimistic about return before playoffs

Derrick Rose is planning to return for the Chicago Bulls before the NBA playoffs, but has stopped short of guaranteeing he will be able to do so.

Rose underwent a minor procedure on his right knee on February 27 and says he is suffering no pain or swelling.

Asked on Wednesday if he will be back before the end of the regular season, Rose told reporters: "That would be the plan. But who knows?

"Whenever I"m ready to come back, that's when I"m going to come back."

Rose will practice on Thursday in full-contact conditions and undergo a day-to-day evaluation thereafter.

The Bulls finish the regular season on April 15 against the Atlanta Hawks.