Derrick Rose is reportedly "close" to signing a one-year deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers, but the Los Angeles Lakers are trying to lure him away.
According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne and Chris Haynes, the Lakers are meeting with Rose today in hopes to sign him.
Story posting shortly with @ChrisBHaynes on Lakers pitch and meeting with Derrick Rose today
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) July 20, 2017
Obviously Lakers feel they have a shot at Rose b/c they can offer more playing time in a better environment after his tumultuous year in NY
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) July 20, 2017
Cleveland is in serious talks with Rose, per @WindhorstESPN and @wojespn so Lakers will have to sell their environment as better than Cavs
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) July 20, 2017
The Lakers are looking to sign a veteran to backup rookie Lonzo Ball and think Rose can be a quality sixth man that will mentor Ball and LA's other young players.
Cleveland is offering Rose a deal for the veterans minimum worth $2.1 million, but Los Angeles can offer him more than double by using their full mid-level exception ($4.3 million available).
Want Lakers news delivered to you on the go? Download the Chat Sports Android App OR Chat Sports iPhone App
Rose has been seeking a starting job on the open market, but has seen interest in him dry up. The Milwaukee Bucks were expressing the most interest in him - and the Los Angeles Clippers also explored adding him - but neither had the cap space to give Rose the kind of deal he was looking for.
However, it appears that Rose is willing to come off his asking price to sign a one-year deal before revisiting free agency next year.
Rose averaged 18.0 points, 4.4 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game for the New York Knicks last season.
Check out our Los Angeles Lakers team page for all the latest Lakers rumors or download the Chat Sports App!
Connect with Us:
Chat Sports on Facebook
Chat Sports on YouTube
Chat Sports on Periscope
Chat Sports on Starters