Former Bulls Star Shockingly Released Ahead of New NBA Season

The Chicago Bulls are officially less than a month away from opening the 2024-25 NBA regular season against the New Orleans Pelicans. The Bulls have finished the last two campaigns with a sub-.500 record, though, leaving the franchise looking to return to the postseason for just the second time since the start of 2017-18.

In the meantime, it's a good time to check in on some former Bulls before the new season begins. On Monday, one ex-Chicago fan favorite was involved in quite the shocking news announcement.

Bulls News: Memphis Grizzlies Waive Derrick Rose

The Memphis Grizzlies have waived former NBA MVP Derrick Rose, per The Athletic's Shams Charania. The veteran point guard signed a two-year, $6.6 million contract with the Grizzlies back in July 2023.

Interestingly enough, the situation isn't something that the team necessarily wanted. ESPN confirmed afterward that Rose requested his release from the team and the Grizzlies opted to grant his wish.

Curious fans are likely wondering what's next for Rose at this stage of his career. Fortunately, they might not have to wait too long. According to Ian Begley of The Athletic, the three-time NBA All-Star could provide "an update on what's next for him later this week."

Bulls fans fondly remember Rose from his eight exciting years with the franchise. He averaged 19.7 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.7 rebounds across 406 games with the franchise, which included when he came the youngest Most Valuable Player in NBA history during the 2010-11 season.

Unfortunately, Rose's infamous ACL tear during the 2012 playoffs prevented him from reaching All-Star heights again. He's still enjoyed a solid career as a backup PG, however, it's hard not to wonder about what could have been if he never got hurt. Chances are he might still be with the Bulls to this day.

Rose seems to be dealing with more injuries than ever before as he ages, though. The ex-Memphis product hasn't hit the 60-game mark in eight years and has played 27 or fewer games in each of the last three seasons.

Could the Bulls Reunite with Derrick Rose?

Now that Rose is a free agent again, could the Bulls potentially reunite with the former MVP before the 2024-25 NBA season begins?

Offseason acquisition Josh Giddey is currently projected to be Chicago's No. 1 PG while the returning Lonzo Ball is slated for the No. 2 spot. Even though Ball's recovery from his knee injuries appears to be going well, the fact remains that he hasn't played a game in nearly three years.

If the Bulls are worried about a potential setback for Ball, signing Rose is a no-brainer. Even though he's no longer prime "D-Rose," the veteran playmaker is still capable of eating backup minutes while providing a frustrated fanbase with another familiar face to cheer for. Who knows? A returning Rose could be motivated to step up his game to end his career on a high note.

Besides, signing Rose wouldn't break the bank. He can likely be signed to a veteran minimum contract this offseason, which is a bargain given what he can still provide both on and off the court.

Hopefully, we have more clarity on Rose's situation in the coming days. In the meantime, it's hard not to get excited about the prospect of the Chicago native returning to the Windy City to help the Bulls finally return to the postseason.

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