Ever since the New York Knicks acquired Derrick Rose, their offense has been a bit more efficient. Over eight games, Rose is averaging 11.8 points and played an influential role in the victory on Thursday evening against the Sacramento Kings.
The veteran point guard connected on his first six shots, finishing with 18 points and six assists, making both of his shots from three-point. Ultimately, his addition has only benefited the team, especially when it comes to his mentorship of Immanuel Quickley.
While Quickley has suffered through his fair share of rookie struggles, his offensive abilities are rejuvenating Knicks fans once again. In the victory over the Kings, he recorded 25 points and hit all 12 of his free throws. He provides a jolt whenever on the floor, playing 20 minutes compared to Rose’s 28.
Rose was asked about this young Knicks team, having played with them back in 2016 when he was 28 years old. Fast forward four years, and nobody on that squad is leftover with New York, with Frank Ntilikina being the closest having joined the squad in 2017.
Derrick remembers what it was like to carry a team on his back and ultimately ran him into the ground after three consecutive seasons of 20+ points per game. He was considered one of the best point guards in basketball, if not the best player in the league at one point. However, a torn ACL in 2012 significantly damaged his progress, but he has proven to still be an adequate player and influential option off the bench for New York. In fact, he started the game again Sacramento, providing plenty of spark on their team needed him most.
“I had the team on my back for numerous years. I went through all of that. Now, I have the luxury of playing with young energy. They bring more life to me whenever I’m on the floor.”
Adding a bit of veteran leadership to the team has done them well, especially since Rose and head coach Tom Thibodeau have a fantastic relationship. Unfortunately, players like Austin Rivers caught the short end of the stick, as Rose has completely replaced him based on his offensive prowess.