3-time All Star, Derrick Rose was officially waived by the Memphis Grizzlies on September 23, 2024 in a shocking move. Rose had all intended on returning for his 17th NBA season and had assumed he’ll be suiting up with the Grizzlies. Rose still had one year remaining on his two-year deal he signed with the organization last offseason and was set to make at least $3.4 million. Sources close with the Grizzlies stated that the veteran point guard was let out of his contract due to the team focusing more on their development on their younger core. Although his time there was short and minor knee and hamstring injuries played a part, Rose was still able to play 24 games for the Grizzlies and averaged 8.0 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.9 rebounds per game within 16.6 minutes. Looks like Derrick Rose is in need of a new home, but what team should eye the 2011 MVP?
The most obvious destination for Rose would be a reunion with the Chicago Bulls. Rose is mostly known for his time in Chicago and becoming one of the biggest stars of all time for that team. No one can overtake bringing 6 NBA championships from 2 separate 3-peats like Michael Jordan did in the 90s but Derrick Rose is a close second based on the impact his play had on the city. Being born and raised in Chicago, it was always Rose’ dream to play for the Bulls. In 2008, his dream would come true being drafted number 1 by his hometown team and the legacy of Rose would begin.
Rose's first 4 years with the Bulls were simply amazing to see for any and all Chicago Bulls fans especially the 2010-2011 season. On top of winning his MVP award and becoming the youngest player to do so, Rose and the Bulls would finish that season with the best record in the league with 62 wins and only 20 losses. With Rose at the helm and complimentary role players such as Joakim Noah, Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng at his side, the Bulls were seemingly headed back to their first NBA Finals since “The Last Dance” Bulls. The Bulls would lose in the Eastern Conference Finals to the LeBron/Wade/Bosh Miami Heat in 5 games. Though he’s not the same player 13 years ago, at this point in his career, for basketball fans a comeback in Chicago would be amazing to see.
There’s a handful of teams in the NBA that could use Rose and create that versatility amongst their point guard positions. Also, with this being his upcoming 17th season, it’s towards the end of his career and Rose does not have a championship on his resumé. Being on a championship contender team may or may not be a priority for Rose at this stage of his own career but many fans of his would love for him to get one before he’s officially done with the game of basketball. Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, Phoenix Suns are teams that put Derrick in position to possibly win his first title. The possibility of Derrick Rose getting signed before the season starts is up in the air but during the season is a must. As a veteran point guard in this league, Rose can still facilitate the ball and give that second lineup on a team a boost and push for the playoffs.
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