NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 25: Derrick Rose
Derrick Rose could be sporting a Cleveland Cavaliers jersey next season.
According to sources at ESPN, free agent point guard Derrick Rose is in talks with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The two sides are reportedly discussing a one-year deal which could be finalized soon.
The 2011 NBA MVP spent last season with the New York Knicks where he averaged 18 points per game. Ultimately, this move could be to satisfy LeBron James. Both James and Kyrie Irving have expressed their displeasure with the Cavs lack of participation in free agency.
Rose would be a strong addition to Cleveland’s bench. As the rest of the NBA strives to catch up to the Warriors’ super team status, the Cavaliers try to stay par with the reigning NBA champions. After numerous additions to strengthen their bench this offseason, the Warriors seem to be heavy favorites to win it all next season. But, the Cavs are finally looking to make a move of their own.
A one-year deal would allow an aging Rose to stick his toes in the water and test coming off the bench. After all, we are weeks into free agency and Rose has yet to reach a deal with anyone else. The 28-year old has seen his career shift from a narrative of one of the NBA’s best young players to a story of what could have been. Rose’s career has been largely plagued by injury, mostly to his knees. However, when on the court, Rose can compete with the league’s best.
D-Rose to the Cavs on a one-year deal seems perfect for both parties. Cleveland’s front office gets the chance to smooth things over with its two biggest stars, finally improving the team. Meanwhile, Rose would get a chance at his first ring, a symbol that his career wasn’t a complete flop after a dissatisfying stint in New York.