2019 NBA free agency: 5 potential landing spots for Derrick Rose
3. Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic may have ended a seven-year playoff drought this past season, but their point guard position poses a lot of question marks. D.J. Augustin seems best suited as just about anything other than a primary ball-handler, while there’s been no indication regarding the return of former No. 1 overall pick Markelle Fultz.
They had one of the best defenses in the league last season, but had trouble scoring the ball with the seventh-lowest scoring offense. Those struggles came in part due to a lack of shot creators along the perimeter, guys who could break down a defense and manifest open looks for both himself and teammates.
Even through all his injuries suffered over the years, Rose can still get to the basket just about any time he wants. Barring any big-time free agency signings, Rose would have complete control of the offense with the Magic, able to run the show as he deems appropriate.
Markelle Fultz’s absence from the hardwood remains indefinite as the former No. 1 pick rehabs his injured shoulder https://t.co/HHKfaIxdtY
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) June 26, 2019
Having never been an elite defender even during his best days, Rose would be flanked by a cast of teammates ranked eighth in defensive rating during the regular season. This would assuredly help maintain an ideal level of wear and tear and allow him even more energy to run the show at the offensive end.
Following a surprise run leading to the playoffs, Orlando is trying to build on its best season in a long time. A blockbuster free agent signing would be nice, but a more subtle one like Rose would also help ascend them farther up the Eastern Conference standings.
For Rose, this may be the best opportunity to recreate his glory days with the Chicago Bulls. Surrounded by an elite defensive unit as the main perimeter option, his counting numbers are sure to look impressive.