Knicks practice notes: Derrick Rose returned to practice Saturday

Derrick Rose returned to practice Saturday after missing two weeks attending his civil rape trial in Los Angeles. The point guard missed the final five games of preseason and has precious little time to prepare for Tuesday’s opener. Fortunately for Rose, he’s smart as hell, according to Derrick Rose.

Per Marc Berman:

After playing just one preseason game, Rose isn’t worried about Tuesday’s season opener in Cleveland, saying his high “basketball IQ’’ will help.

“I’m very confident, man,’’ Rose said. “I really believe that’s why I’m here – to hoop. I still have a lot of confidence in my ability.’’

Head coach Jeff Hornacek met with Rose on Friday to discuss the offense. He was complimentary of his returning floor general after Saturday’s practice: ““He looked good. We did some up and down. His conditioning was good. He’s picking up on the stuff that we’re doing pretty well.”

Rose has a great deal to catch up on, which means he doesn’t have time to put on a shirt.