Rose mulls deals with Cavs, Bulls and Lakers

The viability and interest in a Derrick Rose return to the Knicks may often have been “overstated,” according to one league source, but the door never really was slammed shut by either side. There was always a “just in case” scenario.

Well, figure the divorce will be finalized this weekend.

After sources confirmed multiple reports that Rose and his camp were in serious talks with the Cavaliers, USA Today reported that a decision will come this weekend and the former league MVP has narrowed his choices to Cleveland, the Lakers and Chicago. The Lakers had Rose on their radar as one of a handful of candidates for the backup point-guard spot.

Rose was considering a minimum $2.1 million, oneyear deal from the Cavs who have done little this offseason after a five-game ritualistic execution by the Warriors in the Finals. The Cavs had Deron Williams down the stretch in the regular season as a reserve point guard and he played well, but flamed out in the Finals. ESPN first reported the discussions with the Cavs, labeling the talks “serious.”

After then-president Phil Jackson acquired him via trade from Chicago, Rose made $21,323,250 in his one season with the Knicks, which ended with him missing the final eight games because of a torn left meniscus. He underwent arthroscopic surgery on the knee April 5. Overall, he missed 17 games with the Knicks, including his infamous AWOLgame against the Pelicans in January. Rose averaged 18.0 points and 4.4 assists.

Meanwhile, there was nothing new on the Carmelo Anthony trade front. Although players around the league want Anthony to join them, the Knicks are trying to find a trade that makes sense. Anthony will waive his no-trade clause, but specifically wants Houston in order to join buddy Chris Paul. The Rockets see that as a form of leverage and while looking to find at least one trade partner to acquire assets the Knicks want, likely see their chances improving the longer the situation drags out.