Derrick Rose will not play Thursday; absence likely to extend to next week

Derrick Rose's hamstring strain, which he initially said was just cramping, is starting to appear more serious than first believed. 

According to head coach Tom Thibodeau, Rose will sit out his third consecutive game with the injury when the Bulls take on the Kings in a nationally-televised contest Thursday night. 

According to Nick Friedell of ESPN Chicago, Rose claimed on Wednesday that the hamstring was feeling much better, and showed up early to the gym on Thursday to get some extra work in. 

Unfortunately, as has frequently been the case this season, he didn't feel quite well enough to declare himself active. Rose, who's also dealt with sprained ankles this season, has played in just five games. Thursday will be the seventh he'll sit out. 

K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune later reported that Rose's absence is likely to extend to next week. 

The Bulls have managed to go 4-2 without him.