On Monday, Derrick Rose made one of the most surprising decisions of the summer when he decided to accept a one-year, $2.1 million deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
After meeting with the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and Milwaukee Bucks, Rose decided to join the reigning back-to-back-to-back Eastern Conference champions, not only to chase a ring, but also for the opportunity to play a major role.
According to Joe Varden of Cleveland.com, Rose was intrigued at the possibility of starting in Cleveland.
At this point in his career, that’s exactly the opportunity that he was seeking. Since Kyrie Irving’s status with the team is currently up in the air, Rose saw the opportunity.
“Derrick Rose and the Cavaliers agreed to a one-year deal for $2.1 million Monday after spending the day together, discussing how the team will return to the Finals without Kyrie Irving.
Rose, 28, the 2011 NBA MVP whose career has been hampered by knee injuries, will come to the Cavs looking for his first trip to the Finals after eight pro seasons.
He’s also looking at a potential starting spot in the same lineup with LeBron James, now that Irving has asked for a trade and James is eager to see him off,” Varden wrote.
Via ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, the Lakers were not able to convince Rose to join the team as Lonzo Ball’s backup.
Of course, Rose might end up coming off the bench in Cleveland. If Kyrie Irving is not dealt, for example, he may be forced to play off the bench.
However, the Cavs are expected to contend for another title, while the Lakers are not. Therefore, the situation would become easier to swallow in “The Land”.
Irving’s presence with the team was apparently discussed in Rose’s meeting with the Cavs before the agreement was finalized.
Varden reported that “Irving’s request to be traded was a topic of discussion between Rose and the Cavs, sources said, though they declined to say if Rose was promised a starting job.”
Therefore, Rose might end up thrust into a major role as the starting point guard immediately, especially if the Cavaliers target someone to play off the ball or in the frontcourt in exchange for Irving.
Then next summer, especially if he can maintain his health, Rose can re-enter the free agent market as a much more sought-after target demanding much more money.
It will be fascinating to see how the former MVP can make an impact playing alongside LeBron James and company.
By Dan Karpuc for GiveMeSport
