Can a reunion be nearing for Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls?

The New York Knicks have declined Derrick Rose’s option, letting him become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. The soon-to-be 35-year-old does not have too many playing years left in his storied career but is still capable of helping any squad win games. Rose will have his fair share of suitors this offseason, and the Chicago Bulls will likely be at the top of that list.

Imagine a homecoming for Derrick Rose A.K.A the prodigal son 🤞 pic.twitter.com/SY2hozAajC
— Bulls Nation (@BullsNationCP) June 25, 2023

Back to where it all began

The Bulls initially drafted Rose with the first overall pick in 2008, and he went on to have a remarkable tenure in Chicago. He was named Rookie of The Year after his inaugural season and, a few years later, he was named the youngest MVP in league history. He tore an ACL in the 2012 NBA Playoffs, returned, and played three more seasons in the Windy City before moving on to the New York Knicks.

Rose bounced around several teams before returning to New York to reunite with his former head coach from Chicago, Tom Thibodeau. However, he played in just 53 games over the last two seasons, and was relegated to becoming a mentor and locker-room stabilizer for the team’s younger players.

Derrick Rose’s time with the Knicks is ‘likely over,’ per @StevePopper pic.twitter.com/cuV9QC7ZDj
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 25, 2023

Fresh legs

Rose’ inactivity over the last few seasons means he just may have fresh legs to take on a role of an off-the-bench playmaker. With the Bulls sorely lacking dependable point guards since starting guard Lonzo Ball will be unavailable for next season, Rose could be a guy who could provide some much-needed offensive production. Adam Wells of Bleacher Report believes this could be a smart play for the Bulls, if they pursue it.

“A reunion with the Bulls would make a lot of sense for both sides. Rose could be looking to find an opportunity that will allow him to play. The Bulls need depth at point guard with Ball likely unavailable, Patrick Beverley set to become an unrestricted free agent, and White and Ayo Dosunmu eligible for restricted free agency,” Wells wrote.