On July 25th, 2017, Derrick Rose decided to sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers. This move was made after Boston Celtics point guard Kyrie Irving requested a trade. But things have taken a dark turn since and as a result, it is time to look at potential landing spots for Rose.
Despite an injury during the last few weeks, he had a bounce-back year the previous season with the New York Knicks. Rose finished with 18 points per game while shooting 47 percent. Rose was set to be a part of a team who had a legitimate shot at making it to the NBA Finals. He was going to provide productive minutes off the bench.
On Nov. 24, Rose was excused from the team to reevaluate his career. Once again, Rose suffered another injury. This time, it was a sprained left ankle. Rose returned nearly two months later.
On Feb. 8, the Cavaliers traded Rose along with Jae Crowder to the Utah Jazz for shooting guard Rodney Hood. Two days later, the Jazz released Rose. Now a free agent, Rose is searching for a new team.
Potential Landing Spots for Derrick Rose
Washington Wizards
There are reports out there that the Wizards are eyeing Rose. The Wizards are looking for a replacement for injured All-Star point guard John Wall. Rose would fill that void nicely. He would start immediately for them. In limited action with the Cavaliers, Rose only averaged 9.8 points and 1.6 assists per game. Those numbers will increase with the Wizards, especially playing alongside Bradley Beal, who leads the team in scoring. The cherry on top is the Wizards are in a position to make it to the playoffs. They are currently the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference.
San Antonio Spurs
The point guard position on the Spurs has been in shambles. Tony Parker cannot shake the injury bug. On February 9th, Parker was out because of a back injury and his status, for now, is questionable. Also, Dejounte Murray is suffering from an ankle injury. The Spurs need someone to fill in the void. Rose would fit the bill. He’s a veteran, a former All-Star, a former MVP and he is healthy. Although this would be a short-term solution, at least having Rose to back up Patty Mills would help.
Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies need a starter at point guard. Mike Conley is out for the rest of the season. They do not have anyone who can make up for that loss. Enough though Rose has experienced his struggles, he would bring some legitimacy to the PG position in Memphis. His 9.8 points per game is better than Mario Chalmers. Also, he has played fewer minutes (19.3) than Chalmers (22.6) and has a better shooting percentage (Rose 43 percent, Chalmers 37 percent). He would be a starter right away and have a chance to upgrade his value before becoming a free agent this offseason.
Main Photo:
Potential landing spots for Derrick Rose include the Washington Wizards. Credit: Wikipedia Commons/Erik Drost
