One of the latest NBA rumors with regards to Derrick Rose's "Breakup with Bulls" saga is the speculated interest of the Philadelphia 76ers to acquire him once the 2011 MVP becomes available thru free agency in the summer of 2017.
The rumor came from Philadelphia Media Network's John Smallwood, who suggested that the "Sixers should definitely explore" a potential D-Rose signing once the three-time All-star's five-year, $94.3 million contract expires two summers from now.
Smallwood mentioned Sixers president and general manager Sam Hinkie's penchant for acquiring potential talent amidst injury-prone reputations such as the team's trade for Nerlens Noel in the 2013 draft and their selection of Joel Embiid last year as well.
Of course, Hinkie could only want Rose and offer as much, but the final decision would still be between the 2009 Rookie of the Year awardee and the Bulls if the two parties really do want to separate ties after seven years of service by the 2008 first overall draft pick.
The news of this "breakup" first came from ESPN reporter Brian Windhorst, who said in ESPN Radio's "Russillo & Kanell" program that "the breakup with the Bulls has begun," pertaining to the franchise's alleged exhaustion about Rose's persistent injury problems and his recent "attitude" off the court, as per NESN.
During Chicago's media day in September, Rose made controversial statements about his impending free agency, saying that he is expecting a salary increase by that time as he is said to be concerned about his and his son's future.
Rose will earn a little less than $20.1 million this year then $21.3 million next season as the final year of his deal concludes.
Another rumor that is fanning the flame of Rose's departure from the Bulls is his alleged ongoing rift with future face of the franchise, Jimmy Butler.
It was recently reported that Butler is not a fan of Rose's work ethic and the prima donna treatment the latter is getting from the team during training and practices because of his fragile nature.
Butler is also said to be repulsed by Rose's lack of leadership due to his frequent absences as a result of injuries and because of that the 2015 NBA Most Improved Player reportedly wants to step up as the new leader of the team both on and off the court.
The saga of Rose and the Bulls' divorce had just begun and it seems certain that more rumors will come out until the summer of 2017 arrives.