Derrick Rose quickly became a fan-favorite after signing with the Detroit Pistons in 2019, but his time in the Motor City is nearing its end.
Per Shams Charania and James Edwards of The Athletic, the Pistons are nearing a deal that will send Rose to the New York Knicks for Dennis Smith Jr. and draft compensation. Reports surfaced in the past few days that Rose and Pistons mutually agreed to part ways. Once the trade is complete, it will be his second stint with the Knicks. Rose started 64 games for the Knicks during the 2016-2017 season, averaging 18 points on 47% shooting and 4.4 assists.
The impending trade will also reunite Derrick Rose and Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau. Thibodeau coached Rose during their time together with the Chicago Bulls (five seasons) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (two seasons).
In 15 games this season with Pistons, Rose averaged 14.2 points and 4.2 assists. He didn’t play Saturday during the Pistons’ 135-129 double OT loss to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Rose’s name was the subject of many trade rumors since the start of the season. The Pistons focusing on developing their younger players. The expectation was that Rose could help mentor rookie Killian Hayes throughout the season. However, with Hayes sidelined with a torn hip labrum, and Rose battling inconsistent health, the Pistons needed a reliable starter at point guard.
UPDATE: The trade is now official. Pistons trade Rose to Knicks for Dennis Smith Jr. and a second-round pick.
