Scottie Pippen has earned the right to discuss any topics surrounding the Chicago Bulls, given his contributions to the franchise, which include six championships.
Thus, when management decided to trade Derrick Rose in 2016, Pip did weigh in on the situation.
Etching two three-peats, the Bulls dynasty came to an end in 1998. Entering a rebuilding phase, the franchise took a decade to find its next star player after Michael Jordan. Finally making a breakthrough with the first pick of the 2008 NBA draft they took Rose who was also a Chicago native.
Rose certainly gave fans a reason to rejoice, showing immense ability on the hardwood. Enjoying great success initially, injuries played spoilsport in his career. Left with no choice, the management eventually traded him, a move Pippen described as a business decision.
“Well, I’ve been around the game for a while. Nothing is carved in stone. I think that the organization is making a move for what they feel is best for their future. They probably did what’s best for Derrick’s future as well, whether (or not) he is willing to acknowledge that. I think it’s a winning situation for both sides and hopefully, Derrick understands that. This is part of the business,” said Pippen.
The injury that changed everything
The Bulls were undoubtedly on a mission after their defeat in the 2011 Eastern Conference finals against the Miami Heat. Coming out full throttle in the following 2011-12 lockout season, Coach Tom Thibodeau and crew finished as the first seed in the East, with MVP D-Rose leading them.
Storming into the playoffs, the Bulls were the favorites to win as they faced the eight seed Philadelphia 76ers in the first round. However, a mishap in Game 1 changed things forever, with career-altering effects on Rose, who tore his ACL after landing awkwardly during a play.
The following years saw Derrick dealing with a string of injuries, which robbed him of his prime, whether it was the torn meniscus or orbital bone fracture. No longer the same, as evidenced by his declining production, ultimately led to him being shipped to the New York Knicks.
Bidding farewell to their favorite star it was an emotional moment for fans. On the other hand, there was a section of fans, such as Pippen, that believed it was the best way of dealing with these kinds of issues.
Scottie did pay homage to D-Rose
Though short-lived, Rose left a profound impact on the league and its fans. As a result, when he announced his retirement in 2024, tributes poured in for the veteran guard. Joining the chorus, Pippen decided to give Rose his flowers, even calling him Chicago’s very own MVP.
“Your journey was never just about the highlights; it was about the heart, the hustle and the way you bounced back every time. The game won’t be the same without you, D. Rose. Respect forever,”posted Scottie.
While Pippen addressed the decision to trade Rose as a winning situation, he did not hesitate to acknowledge his greatness. It is surely heartwarming to see D-Rose get all the love and appreciation he deserved over the years.
In the end, the Bulls also decided to retire his jersey, proving how big an impact Rose had on the organization while he was there.