Malik

Rose

No word on what he’ll be doing exactly, but the two-time champion will take his talents to the NBA offices while the Pistons will look for a new assistant GM to work with General Manager Ed Stefanski.

With David Robinson out of the picture, Rose could have a little fantasy value, especially early on. He’s wouldn’t be a bad pick in the last round.

Coach Gregg Popovich said he would be surprised if Rose played before the Spurs’ trip to Seattle and Portland next Thursday.

Rose, who has missed seven games, played some one-on-one Monday morning and was pleased with the results. There’s a chance he could be cleared to play Thursday.

Beyond that, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich isn’t sure. Rose has missed four games with a strained tendon in his ankle. ''It’s going real slow, but it is improving,’' Popovich said. ''It’s just too weak to play on. He doesn’t have the strength in the leg, so he’s working on getting that back.’'

Rose missed Friday’s game with a strained ankle tendon, but didn’t think he would be out much longer.

Rose isn’t likely to be taken because of his contract, but the Spurs will try to move him this summer. Ward has yet to tell the Spurs whether he will exercise his $1.1 million option for next season, but he figures to be exposed in the draft, regardless.

Rose started at power forward with Tim Duncan resting. He’s not expected to have a major role this season.

After making an errant second-quarter pass that was picked by Brad Miller, Rose pulled his jersey over his head momentarily. At the same time, Sacramento’s Darius Songaila sprinted past Rose and took a perfect pass from Miller for a layin that gave the Kings a one-point lead. Robert Horry, who has a sore knee, replaced Rose and went for nine points and eight rebounds.

We guessed last night that this could happen, and ineffective Tony Massenburg moved back to the bench. Rose could get another chance on Friday, as Duncan is ‘’50-50'’ for that game.