For the first time since Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose underwent an operation to mend a torn meniscus in his right knee, Rose isn't listed as "out" coming into Wednesday's game against the Orlando Magic. The former MVP is listed for that game as "questionable."

After suffering the injury on February 24, the prognosis was that Rose would be out 4-6 weeks. Friday marks week six. As tweeted by K.C. Johnson, Rose told Lisa Salters on ABC telecast that he will return "likely sometime this week."

This is welcome news for Bulls' fans with the playoffs tipping-off on April 18. Just a few days ago, after participating in full-contact practice in consecutive days, Rose gave an innocuous "who knows" reply when asked about his return.

"We don't expect him to be playing 35 minutes or scoring a ton of points. Just go out there and give us what you have and that's good enough because when he plays, he makes the game easy for everybody," Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau was quoted saying as reported by Johnson.

As noted by Vincent Goodwill of CSN Chicago, the former All-Star has missed 20 games, with the Bulls just over .500 (10-9) during that span. The Bulls have also ceded the second place spot to the Cleveland Cavaliers during that time, but as Goodwill reports, starting the process of getting reacquainted with his teammates is a welcome development.

"That's the challenge. Anytime you deal with injuries, it's how quickly can you adapt to those changes. We've had our starters together for 19 games. We're heading down the stretch now. So whenever we do get people back, we gotta be ready to move forward right away. We don't want to use that as an excuse. Just get out there and get the job done," Thibodeau said.

After the Magic, the Bulls visit the Miami Heat on Thursday, play at home against the Philadelphia 76ers Saturday, fly to Brooklyn to face the Nets Monday, and cap the regular season with a showdown against the Atlanta Hawks on April 15.