KEY POINTS

  • The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to chase for Derrick Rose
  • Rose is being considered as a replacement for Dennis Schroder
  • The former NBA MVP may opt to stay with the New York Knicks

Derrick Rose is set to hit NBA free agency, but the New York Knicks remain a potential landing spot.

However, it cannot be discounted that other teams will try to lure the former NBA Most Valuable Player.

One team seen as a threat to the Gotham-based squad is the Los Angeles Lakers.

The interest in "D-Rose" makes good sense. There is the growing belief that Dennis Schroder will be leaving the Lakers this offseason, spurred further by his recent comments and actions on social media.

Rose could be the perfect replacement, not to mention someone who holds close ties with LeBron James.

Recall that both were teammates under the banner of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2017-18 NBA season.

However, worth noting at that time is that the 32-year-old grew frustrated with his injuries and contemplated quitting the game.

He was traded to the Utah Jazz in February 2018 before getting waived two days later.

Rose was picked up by the Minnesota Timberwolves in March of that year. However, it was his stint with the Detroit Pistons that gave him a new lease on life.

He returned to the Knicks in February of this year and reunited with old coach Tom Thibodeau.

Rose ended last season with 14.7 points, 4.2 assists, and 2.6 rebounds in 50 games. He was a key part of the Knicks rotation, a reason why Thibodeau would want him back.

As for the Lakers, it may depend on whether Rose would be willing to take the risk of joining a souped-up team once more.

The point guard position is critical, but having to play alongside James and Anthony Davis could be crucial.

Derrick Rose #4 of the New York Knicks
Derrick Rose #4 of the New York Knicks Getty Images | Michael Reaves

Another point worth considering is that Rose has struggled through injuries.

Although the past years saw the three-time NBA All-Star hold up better, it is another angle that general manager Rob Pelinka will consider.

The Lakers suffered blows this season due to the injuries that James and Davis had to endure.

The last thing they need is to take in another superstar who may end up spending more time on the sidelines than on the basketball floor.