Should the Chicago Bulls bring back Derrick Rose?

The pros and cons of bringing back DRose to the Windy City.

© Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

Derrick Rose began his great NBA career with the Chicago Bulls, which makes it only right that he ends it in the Windy City. Although DRose is far from the player that took the league by storm in 2008-09, he still has the potential to be a reliable contributor on any team. The Bulls have considered bringing him back to the squad in 2021 before eventually signing Alex Caruso.

Now, with pundits believing the New York Knicks will decline Rose’s $15.6 million option, this can pave the way for DRose to make his glorious return. So, should the Bulls consider bringing back Derrick Rose?

The pros of bringing DRose back

The answer is an emphatic yes. It would be a great move from both a basketball and a sentimental perspective. On the court, DRose can still bring floor generalship and playmaking to a team that struggled to find a leader until Pat Beverley came around late in the season. His veteran presence would mean a lot for this Bulls squad that has numerous talented, but untested players in Ayo Dosunmu, Patrick Williams, and Dalen Terry.

Most of all, the Bulls are in dire need of a point guard. With Beverley, Dosunmu, and Coby White set to hit free agency, the Bulls lack a real centerpiece in the backcourt. Bringing back DRose can help correct that issue, and with his experience and established presence, he has the potential to be an excellent role model for Chicago’s young guards.

Why the team should think twice

Anyone who saw the Bulls play this season is well aware of what the team sorely needs: three-point shooting. Rose’s presence would not improve the Bulls’ long range game, as he is a career 31.5% shooter from beyond the arc and made just 30% of his shots from distance last season with the Knicks.

With the Bulls at a crucial crossroads, the team’s decision-makers must think long and hard about any roster move they make. While Rose may have the potential to lead a young Bulls team, his subpar shooting and the need for a more balanced offensive attack should make the team pause before adding him back to the roster.