Sometimes all it takes is trust and faith in a player to maximize their potential, and that is exactly what head coach Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks did with veteran point guard Derrick Rose. The Knicks desperately needed more point guard production this season before the trade deadline when they brought the veteran over from the Detroit Pistons. Nobody thought Rose would offer enough to supplement not having a star PG, but he has offered versatility and scoring production on a nightly basis.
Rose is in the final deal of a two-year, $15 million contract, and the Knicks might consider extending him after this campaign based on his statistics and leadership.
Rose is averaging 14.3 points, 4.1 assists, and is hitting .477% from the field and .400 from downtown, the highest mark in his entire career. His confidence seems to be sky-high, thanks to a fantastic relationship with Thibodeau, which he trusts and values.
“The only thing I can think of is trust,†the point guard static regarding his relationship with Thibs. “He knows how hard I fought to get back. He knows I’m a gym rat. He knows I’m a student of the game. He knows where my heart is at, and it’s vice versa. I know how much work he puts into his craft. I know how he preps before the game, and you’re seeing the results of it.â€
The love of the game is all it takes for the Knicks’ veteran PG:
Similar to Immanuel Quickley, Rose simply loves the game of basketball. Whether it represents an escape from reality or just a boyhood love, he puts it all on the court every night for a team he’s only been a part of for half of season. However, at 32 years old, Rose has turned back the clock and emerged as a vintage weapon. Against the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday evening, Rose posted 25 points, completely taking over the contest and winning this game with his production and vision.
With experience in the postseason, the Knicks will desperately need Rose and his comforting presence. He can make shots when it matters most and isn’t afraid to attack some of the leagues best players. That confidence will spill over to the rest of the team, and with a tough West Coast schedule upcoming, the team will need their stoic veteran.