Chicago Bulls Rumors: Jimmy Butler reportedly does not Like Derrick Rose’s Work Ethic

Ever since Jimmy Butler started to take on a leadership role with the Chicago Bulls after Derrick Rose dealt with several consecutive injuries, rumors have been circulating that there is tension between the two star athletes.

Although the rumors died down significantly after Butler re-signed with the Bulls during the offseason, the rumors seem to have resurfaced after Rose's recent eye injury. According to a report from the Chicago Sun-Times, Butler and Rose have mutual respect for each other off the court. On the court, however, Butler allegedly is not a huge fan of Rose's work ethic.

Joe Cowley of the Sun-Times quoted a source, who said, "Personally, the two are great. Professionally is where they have a difference of opinion."

The source, who is a former member of the Bulls, added that Butler "doesn't have a lot of respect for his work ethic."

Cowley wrote, "In Butler's mind, Rose was considered the face of the franchise, and if the face of the franchise wasn't busting his butt in practice every day, especially last season, what was the message to the rest of the team?"

Butler, on the other hand, has been working very hard this offseason.

"I'm telling you, the amount of work he [Butler] puts in ... even during two-a-days, he would still come in a third time,'' first-year Head Coach Fred Hoiberg said. "I mean the guys is unbelievable how much energy he has. He's just so dedicated to putting the right things in his body, his training, and he wants to continue to add to his game every year. I take my hat off to him. It's been fun to see everything he's been able to do out there on the floor.''

Hoiberg added, "I was fortunate enough, I played with a guy you might remember named Kevin Garnett. He was one of the best. Everyone followed because of the amount of time guys like that put in the gym. It's not an accident that guys like that are superstars. When Michael [Jordan] played here, that was another great example of a guy that just pulled everyone with him. And Jimmy wants that."

Not only has Butler been focused on himself, he has also taken the time to help the team's younger players, like Doug McDermott, who Butler invited to San Diego for some work out sessions.

"It's something I have to do if I want to try and take this team to the next step, the next level,'' Butler said in regards to becoming a leader. "Obviously, the ultimate goal is a championship, but I got to bring something new every year. And I just think that leadership this year is key because I've been going so hard in practice."

The Bulls will take on the Cleveland Cavalier in their season opener on Oct. 27.