Grizzlies To Waive Derrick Rose, Perhaps Bringing End To Career

The Grizzlies are cutting ties with point guard Derrick Rose, per Shams Charania of The Athletic. And this very well could be the end of the line for Rose in the NBA.

Of course, Rose always has Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau. (That’s a joke. Sort of.)

Rose, who turns 36 on Oct. 4, probably could have retired four or five years ago, his knees seemingly having called it quits about seven years ago. But to his credit, he’s managed to stick around as a strong locker room presence and occasional on-court contributor. It’s been 13 years since he won NBA MVP as a member of the Bulls.

So this could be the end of the line for Rose. Maybe not, too — but it sure feels that way. If he’s signed by anyone now, it would be as a third point guard and extra practice body. Nothing wrong with that and it’s a role the always professional and forever-driven Rose would certainly accept. But again, it’s hard to envision that role being available as teams prepare for training camp next week.

Interestingly, Rose said in April that he has no plans to retire. “Yes, I’m coming back,” he told reporters.

He only played 24 games last season, averaging 8.0 points, 1.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists, 46.1% from the field, 36.6% from beyond the arc.

A native of Chicago, Rose has undergone eight total surgeries. Along with the Grizzlies, Bulls and Knicks, he has spent time with the Cavaliers, Timberwolves and Pistons. He continues to hold the title of youngest MVP in league history (22 years old when he won it).