Derrick Rose just can't stay healthy, no matter where he plays. The point guard has appeared in only two games for the Cleveland Cavaliers this season, but he will return to action soon. Even though Rose is far from the best player on the team, he brings a lot to the table, especially while Isaiah Thomas is out. Considering that Thomas will be sidelined for a few more months, the Cavaliers need Rose to stay healthy and run their offense.
Without Rose, the Cavaliers are 1-2 this season and their only win came against his former team, the Chicago Bulls.
Even against the Bulls, Cleveland struggled, but managed to escape with a 7-point victory. While LeBron James is capable of running the floor, there is no doubt that the team would be better off with Rose. Fortunately, the point guard will return for the Cavaliers' next game.
Derrick Rose's return
Coming off their 5-point loss against the Brooklyn Nets, the Cleveland Cavaliers will have another road game. This time, they will travel to Louisiana to square off against the New Orleans Pelicans. The Pelicans can be a tough opponent, but the reigning Eastern Conference champions will have Derrick Rose back.
Rose participated in Friday's practice and will be put in the starting lineup Saturday night, according to head coach Tyronn Lue.
After missing three games due to an ankle injury, there is no doubt that the former MVP will be rusty, but he can still be a major contributor. Cleveland hasn't had a great season so far and their game against the Pelicans is very important. Losing in New Orleans would put them at a .500 record with only three wins in six games.
On the other side, there is a good chance that the Pelicans will be shorthanded. Anthony Davis, who missed the last game, is dealing with knee issues and is questionable for the game against Cleveland. Even without Davis, New Orleans still has a decent roster and DeMarcus Cousins is capable of leading them to a win.
Surprising lineup move
It seems that Tyronn Lue will change his starting lineup once again. When Derrick Rose returns, Lue will insert him in the starting lineup alongside J.R. Smith, LeBron James, Kevin Love, and Tristan Thompson. Jae Crowder, who was a starting forward in the first five games, will come off the bench.
According to the coach, playing against big guys wears Kevin Love out, so it's better to have Thompson deal with them. Crowder is fine with the decision and has no problem with being a backup forward. "To be honest with you I came in not putting myself as a starter, prepping myself to do whatever the team asked me to do, whether it be coming off the bench or whether it be starting," Crowder said.
