Derrick Rose is an unrestricted free agent this summer, and the former league MVP is seeking a near-max contract from someone. Rose showed last season that he is still a quality player in the league, but there isn't expected to be an abundance of interest in him on the open market. So, which teams are interested? Here are the four teams lost likely to sign him:
4) New York Knicks
The Knicks have expressed interest in re-signing Rose, but assuming they draft a point guard (which they are expected to), they will be out of the Rose running. They were happy with his production this past season, but don't appear to be willing to meet his asking price. They may reconsider if they don't get a point guard in the draft.
3) Indiana Pacers
Indiana is in a tricky situation this offseason. Paul George seems to be plotting a move to the Lakers, but the Pacers think they still have a chance to re-sign him if they can build a good team around him. They plan to pursue Gordon Hayward in free agency to appease George, and they are also keeping close tabs on Rose. He'd be an upgrade at point guard over Jeff Teague, who is also a free agent.
2) Minnesota Timberwolves
This is all about Tom Thibodeau, who coached Rose with the Chicago Bulls. Minnesota nearly acquired Rose at the trade deadline before walking away at the last minute and remain interested in him. They won't give him the long-term deal he wants, but the chance to reunite with Thibodeau might be too much for Rose to pass on.
1) Dallas Mavericks
Dallas is the best chance for Rose to get what he wants - a lucrative contract and a starting job. The Mavs ahave a major need at point guard, a need that will only become more serious if they don't draft one. They have cap space to give Rose a big contract and Dallas really wants to become a contender again as soon as possible. That could cause them to gamble on Rose.
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