Timberwolves have no plans to sign Derrick Rose
A Derrick Rose-Tom Thibodeau reunion in Minnesota doesn't appear to be in the cards.
Following his release from the Utah Jazz, it was reported that the Timberwolves would be interested in signing Rose to join the roster for their inevitable playoff run. Owner Glen Taylor, though, says he isn't considering filling the vacant roster spot with the former league Most Valuable Player.
"If we could find the right person to fit into our team and have some ability to play, get out there on the floor, we are certainly going to look at it," Taylor told The Star Tribune's Sid Hartman. "We kept one slot open all year long just in case that possibility occurred. But as of today we don't have anybody in mind."
Jeff Teague is currently Minnesota's starting point guard after signing a three-year, $57-million contract over the summer, with Tyus Jones serving as the primary backup. Thibodeau doesn't utilize a deep rotation in the first place, so there's really no need for someone like Rose at this stage.
The transition would likely be smooth if things were to change, at least. Rose played the best basketball of his career under Thibodeau in Chicago, and is a former teammate of both Jimmy Butler and Taj Gibson during their days together in The Windy City.
Rose was one of many members of the Cleveland Cavaliers shown the door prior to the trade deadline. He was sent to the Jazz, along with Jae Crowder, as part of a three-team deal involving the Sacramento Kings, and then immediately waived.
The 29-year-old averaged 9.8 points and 1.6 assists on 43.9 percent shooting during his 16-game stint with the Cavs organization.