Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau is convinced All-Star guard Derrick Rose's fighting spirit will serve him well as he battles back from his second season-ending knee surgery in as many seasons.

"I think one of his great strengths is his attitude," Thibodeau told the Chicago Tribune of the youngest league MVP in history.he said. "In the end, this is going to make him even stronger mentally. And that's probably the biggest thing. I saw the way he responded with the ACL. He has an even greater determination now. And I think that's going to serve him well."

When asked if he has any concerns the 2011 league MVP might not be the same player again, Thibodeau simply answered "nope, none." He later added "yeah, I mean for him he has to focus on rehab. That's what he has done. He's doing well.The big thing for us is to make sure he's completely healthy. And that's all we're focused on."

The Bulls face Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday night, in the final game before the All-Star break.