In a bit of a shocking move, the Memphis Grizzlies have moved on from guard Derrick Rose. According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the Grizzlies waived the former MVP. This news comes roughly a week before the start of training camp.
Just In: The Memphis Grizzlies are waiving former NBA MVP Derrick Rose, sources tell @TheAthletic. pic.twitter.com/VkLqZDYC3X
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 23, 2024
Rose spent the 2023-24 season with the Grizzlies, appearing in just 24 games. On the year, he averaged 8 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. The Chicago native had one year remaining on his two-year, $6.5 million contract.
Memphis Grizzlies Waive Potential Hall of Famer
Why the Grizzlies Waived Derrick Rose
Though no official reason for the decision to waive Rose has been announced, there are a few things to consider.
First, the Grizzlies are expected to have Ja Morant and Marcus Smart back for the 2024-25 season. Both guards missed significant time last season. However, as they approach the next campaign, both of them will likely be back in time for the start of the season. Furthermore, the team has Scotty Pippen Jr. and Luke Kennard, two solid role players, as their backup guards.
Second, even in the short time he had with the Grizzlies, Rose proved he was just a shell of the player he once was. At his peak, Rose was a dominant and fun player to watch. However, over the years, he has lost his athleticism due to age and his constant injuries. He has become a solid shooter in recent years. This, however, was not enough for him to remain with the Grizzlies.
What’s Next for Derrick Rose?
As has been the case for Rose over the past few years, it is fair to wonder if this is the end of his NBA days. He is turning 36 in a couple of weeks. Furthermore, he has not played in more than 50 games since the 2018-19 season. Additionally, Rose has not been a regular starter since he was a member of the New York Knicks during the 2016-17 season.
However, if there is one thing Rose has taught the basketball world throughout his career, it is that he is not someone to continue to write off. Rose has overcome numerous brutal injuries to stay in the league. He may not be the same player he was during his Chicago Bulls days. However, Rose is still a fantastic veteran presence for any team to add.
The biggest thing going against Rose is him now on the market just a couple of weeks before the start of preseason. It is unlikely that he will join a new team by the start of the regular season. However, it would not be a surprise to see Rose bench on an NBA court at some point before the end of the next campaign.
