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Cleveland Cavaliers: 15 NBA stars you forgot played for the Cavs

By Tony Pesta

NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 4: Ben Wallace #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the game against the New York Knicks on February 4, 2009 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images)
NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 4: Ben Wallace #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the game against the New York Knicks on February 4, 2009 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images)
(Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images) /

4. Derrick Rose (2017-18)

Derrick Rose has had some insane ups and downs throughout the years. He became a household name for his explosive athleticism and otherworldy speed with the Chicago Bulls.

In 2011, Rose beat out LeBron James to become the league’s youngest MVP winner of all-time. Rose and James seemed destined to battle in the Eastern Conference for the foreseeable future before a series of unfortunate injuries nearly derailed Rose’s career.

About six years after dueling James for the MVP, Rose joined the King in Cleveland to help compete for a championship. The Cavaliers had just reached three straight Finals but were reeling due to the loss of Kyrie Irving.

Cleveland hoped that Rose could come close to being the player he once was. The fantasy of James and Rose playing alongside each other had finally become a reality.

This dream was short-lived. An early-season injury halted Rose dead in his tracks as he reportedly considered retiring from basketball altogether during a month-long hiatus from the team. Rose appeared in less than 20 games for the Cleveland Cavaliers before being shipped at the trade deadline.

Now in Detroit, Rose is having one of the best seasons of his career. He is averaging the most points per game since 2012 and has maintained his health until recently. One day, we may see Rose compete with a playoff contender once again.

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