• Fri. Mar 29th, 2024

NEW YORK CITY, N.Y. – Derrick Rose has been a key component to the New York Knicks’ early success thus far. Rose has averaged 16.4 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game in 23 games this season. This is impressive considering how little Rose played last year, and encouraging for Knick fans to see. Rose has showcased he still has a lot of bounce, and still is an elite finisher at the rim. The consistent contributions from Rose, have helped the Knicks to a 14-13 record.

Back on Dec. 9th, the Knicks started a five game west coast road trip. New York started the trip off strong by notching wins over the Sacramento Kings and the Los Angeles Lakers. Rose only played 10 minutes against the Phoenix Suns, before leaving due to back spasms. Those same back spasms would keep Rose sidelined for the next two games, following a 113-111 OT loss in Phoenix. New York would go on to lose the final two games of the road trip to the Golden State Warriors and Denver Nuggets. In the four games this season that Rose has missed due to injury, the Knicks are 1-3.

(Photo Credit: Barry Holmes) Derrick Rose has been a key to the Knicks' early success.
(Photo Credit: Barry Holmes) Derrick Rose has been a key to the Knicks’ early success.

Rose has been considerably reliable for New York, only missing four games and providing steady production on the court. New York definitely misses having Rose’s relentless penetration, which creates fast break and quality shot opportunities. The Knicks will have Rose back tonight, as he told reporters that he would be ready to play on Tuesday night against the Indiana Pacers. This is a big game, considering the rivalry and playoff aspirations for both teams. Right now, New York holds the 6th seed in the Eastern Conference and Indiana holds the final playoff spot at the 8th seed. New York’s chances of winning tonight, greatly increase with having #25 back on the floor.

Barry Holmes is a Senior Writer for PureSportsNY.com. Follow him on Twitter @BHO732

(Featured Photo Credit: Barry Holmes/PureSportsNY)

 

By Barry Holmes

Graduate of Millersville University, with a BS in Communications focused in Broadcast. Senior Writer & Social Media Manager for PureSportsNY.

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