Knicks Decline Derrick Rose's Contract; Former MVP to Become Free Agent
The New York Knicks are expected to part ways with a fan favorite just ahead of free agency.
According to Steve Popper of Newsday, the Knicks have declined point guard Derrick Rose's $15.6 million team option, making the 2011 NBA MVP an unrestricted free agent.
"Rose was beloved by (head coach Tom Thibodeau) and the organization, had a diminished role on the court but was a pro throughout his benching, a voice in the locker room, and this will give him a chance to explore available opportunities," Popper tweeted.
Rose, 34, will likely be seeking somewhere close to a veteran's minimum deal in free agency, and there's still a chance that he could return to the Knicks.
"The door is not closed on a Rose return," Popper added. "He could come back on a vet minimum deal. But with (Jalen) Brunson, (Immanuel) Quickley, and (Miles) McBride he likely has a better opportunity with some other contenders who need a point guard."
Rose averaged a career-low 5.6 points per game this past season with the Knicks in just 27 appearances. He was removed from the rotation in December and took the floor in just one regular season game in the new calendar year, drawing cheers upon his late entry in a February win over New Orleans.
Teams that could benefit from Rose's services in free agency include the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers, and Phoenix Suns.
Perhaps a return with the Chicago Bulls, his hometown team who drafted him with the No. 1 overall pick in 2008, is also not out of the question considering the warm reception he received upon his return to United Center as a Knick in December.
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