Derrick Rose vs. Brooklyn Nets (Photo : Getty Images Sport)
One of the boldest claims we have heard today is the declaration that Derrick Rose's "breakup" with the Chicago Bulls has begun.
This came from ESPN's Brian Windhorst, as seen in this video clip. It was reiterated that they do not blame Rose for getting injured, but his attitude, highlighted by his preseason statements about free agency, was the cause of the Bulls' change of heart.
Windhorst said that the franchise is ready to move on and the Chicago fan base who were once rabid in defending their hometown hero, is already "over it."
Thus, the Derrick Rose rumors will resume but there are actually limited trade destinations. Not too many teams would be eager to take on Rose's huge contract which runs until the end of the 2017 season as doing so will prevent them from pursuing 2016 free agents.
One team has good reason to do that. The Brooklyn Nets has a huge contract in Joe Johnson but he's already expiring so he actually becomes an asset to provide cap space.
According to Real GM, a trade that would send Joe Johnson and Jarrett Jack (to replace Rose as starting PG) to the Chicago Bulls and take back Derrick Rose and Taj Gibson (an actual asset) is possible.
For the Nets, they have been trying to trade Joe Johnson for more than a year now. While they could also use the cap space, if the Nets would be realistic, they would realize that they would not have s shot at top free agents given the competitive market. But they can take the Sacramento 2016 first round pick (top 10 protected) from the Bulls, as they have already traded their own picks.
For the Bulls, Joe Johnson is actually a player that can help this season especially with the new Fred Hoiberg offense. Jarrett Jack is one of the best back-up point guards but may have to suffice as their starter.
The big deal for the Bulls is that they will have cap space in the summer when Joe Johnson's deal expires. This may change the whole offseason landscape if the Bulls would be a player.
Jimmy Butler, Nikola Mirotic and whoever the Bulls retain with Joakim Noah and Pau Gasol would be a great supporting cast for someone like Kevin Durant. The Bulls can also pursue their point guard of the future (hint: Mike Conley).
