It is no secret that New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau and veteran point guard Derrick Rose have a very close relationship. Ever since Rose was acquired by the Knicks several weeks ago, the team has been on a tear, dominating lesser opposition and competing against some quality teams. However, the Knicks got a dose of what life without Rose looks like, being absolutely thrashed by the San Antonio Spurs, losing 119-93.
Since taking his talents to the city that never sleeps, Rose has averaged 12.5 points, 4.9 assists, and 2.6 total rebounds. Subsequently, Rose is averaging less points with the Knicks than he was with Detroit over the first 15 games of the season, but that could simply be a result of systematic changes. Rose has taken on a leadership role, helping mentor rookie Immanuel Quickley and spreading the ball around the floor with his impeccable vision.
In his 13th year as a professional, Rose understands that basketball is simple, and he’s just relying on his natural instincts to help contribute moving forward.
“It’s not hard,’’ Rose said serval days ago. “It’s basketball. It’s still basketball, bro. Giving guys the ball where they want the ball. Thibs will put us in a great spot to be prepared in certain situations and my job is just to push the ball, so just applying pressure whenever I can and just play my game. I don’t think I have to overthink it. I’ve been a starter the majority of my career. So it shouldn’t be too hard.’’
Derrick has realized an influx in energy, thanks to the youthful Knicks. It almost seems like he feels there’s something to play for again, not just the remainder of his career on a stumbling Detroit team. Thibodeau is building something special, and the results after just 36 games are encouraging.
“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.â€
Should the New York Knicks extend Rose?
I wouldn’t be surprised if the Knicks offered Rose an extension for the 2022 season. His influence this year is obvious, and utilizing him with Quickley on the floor simultaneously has proven to be effective.
Elfrid Payton is currently on a one-year, $5 million deal, so I anticipate the Knicks letting him walk after the season concludes. Rose, on the other hand, is earning $7.68 million for the current season but would likely take a price-cut to stick with NY and help them build a solid foundation.
New York has plenty of draft capital and cap space to acquire a star player, and Rose can still be an impact option off the bench. In fact, having him as a rotational piece would be ideal, a player with superior court vision and the ability to still score adequately. I fully anticipate the Knicks trying to retain him for next year.