According to new reports, the Los Angeles Lakers could target Derrick Rose from the New York Knicks. However, the only way they'll be able to do this is by waiting for the player to become a free agent next offseason.
As confirmed by ESPN last month, the Chicago Bulls traded Rose to the Knicks in exchange for Jerian Grant, Robin Lopez and Jose Calderon. Weeks before the trade went down, there have already been rumors suggesting that the Bulls would move Rose.
This is primarily because the team is not happy with Rose performance during the past seasons. Rose, on the other hand, didn't have any problems about being traded. In fact, according to sources, he even hoped that he would get moved to the Knicks after learning about the trade.
However, it seems Rose might move again next year since according to rumors, the Lakers are interested in signing him. As part of the deal with the Knicks, the New York franchise will cover the last remaining year in Rose's contract. For now, it is not yet clear if the Knicks are planning on extending his contract. But if they don't, then this means Rose will become a free agent after the 2016-2017 season.
According to Inquisitr, the Lakers could then come in next offseason to possible offer Rose a contract. For one, the Lakers have been pretty smart with their expenses this offseason which means they'll be entering the year with enough cap space to sign Rose.
In addition, looking at the Lakers' current offensive lineup, it seems the team is favoring speed and shooting accuracy. Currently, they have D'Angelo Russell, Brandon Ingram and Jordan Clarkson.
Although these three are probably enough for the team, they're still pretty young which means adding a veteran shooting guard can provide the lineup with the proper direction to turn the Lakers into a playoff-worthy team.
But then again, it is not yet clear if the Lakers will really go after Rose next season. After all, if the 27-year-old guard performs well this year, the Knicks might decide to lock him in by offering him a multi-year deal.
