Chicago Bulls star player Jimmy Butler gave his former teammate Derrick Rose a heartfelt goodbye after Rose was traded away to the New York Knicks on Wednesday.
Rose was shipped to the Knicks in the biggest trade of the NBA offseason and there’s no doubt that Butler was shaken by the departure of a man he describes as his “brother.” (SLIDESHOW: This
Butler wrote the following on Instagram:
My point guard, my brother: you taught me so much since I came into this league as a 21 year old kid from Marquette. For me, coming to Chicago to play and learn from you, an MVP, was eye-opening. You helped shape me into the player I am today. Helped teach me the work ethic needed to excel in this league. You are a leader, thru and thru. Always a supportive teammate and friend. I’ll always be thankful for the opportunity I had to play alongside you each night and I know you’re going to continue to be the great player and leader you were in Chicago for years to come.
Rose played seven seasons for the Bulls before being traded.