The former first round pick game into the league and looked like a star from the onset, but injuries have derailed the eight-year veteran, limiting Rose to just 166 games played over the last five years, leading many in the game to believe his best days are in the past.
The 27-year-old did manage to hit the court for 66 games this past season, but despite his reemergence, the Bulls struggled to play consistent basketball, finishing the year with a 42-40 record and missing the Eastern Conference Playoffs.
Rumors had been circulating on social media over the last month on a potential trade, despite the veteran guard being the heart and soul of the franchise. However, with $21 million owed for another season and a couple other free agents likely leaving, the time was now to begin the rebuilding process for the organization.
Chicago will get point guards Jose Calderon and Jerian Grant, a veteran and youngster who will likely work in tandem to replace the former All Star, but it likely is just a short-term answer as the team regroups and looks ahead. The Bulls also got big man Robin Lopez, a move that could help with the likely departure of Pau Gasol.
The big news is in New York as the Knicks receive the player they hope will return to his playing ways of five years ago. Coupled with Carmelo Anthony and a couple good youngsters and this franchise could move up the NBA power rankings in a big way next season and finally give the fans something to cheer about after several poor seasons of play.
