Bulls, Rose optimistic he'll play in All-Star Game

Derrick Rose was moving around and feeling better Thursday, and the Bulls are optimistic he will be able to play in Sunday's All-Star Game.

Rose left Wednesday's loss to Orlando early in the first quarter after being knocked to the ground by a hard foul from Magic center Dwight Howard. Rose landed flat on his back and tailbone. He was able to shoot an ensuing free throw, then left the game and didn't return.

X-ray and MRI exams taken Wednesday night showed no significant injury. So it's basically a matter of when Rose feels well enough to start playing again.

The second-year guard traveled to Dallas on Thursday and will continue to be monitored by Bulls team physician Brian Cole. Rose is scheduled to defend his title in the skills competition Saturday, then become the first Bulls player to participate in the All-Star Game since Michael Jordan in 1998.

With Rose out of the game, the Bulls fell apart and lost to the Magic 107-87, heading into the all-star break with a 25-26 record. Their next game is Tuesday against New York at the United Center.