Derrick Rose inks pact with Cavs
CLEVELAND (AP) — For the moment, the Cavaliers have one content, proven point guard.
Free agent Derrick Rose agreed today to sign with Cleveland, a person familiar with the decision told The Associated Press. Rose, a former NBA MVP who has battled knee injuries, will get a one-year contract at the veteran's minimum of $2.1 million, said the person who spoke on condition of anonymity because the team has not announced the agreement.
The deal is expected to be finalized and announced Tuesday.
Rose played for the New York Knicks last season and averaged 18 points and 4.4 assists. The 28-year-old's role with the Cavs is still to be determined. He could be used as a backup or even start depending on what the team does with All-Star Kyrie Irving, who recently asked for a trade.
Irving's demands have complicated things for the defending Eastern Conference champions, who were beaten by Golden State in the Finals. They'll certainly find interest in Irving, but it may be challenging to find comparable talent in return.
That's where Rose comes in. If healthy, Rose is a dynamic scorer capable of taking over a game, and paired with LeBron James, he could be even more dangerous.
Not long after reports surfaced of Rose's agreement, James posted a message on Twitter with five rose emojis followed by, "Let's Rock G!!"