
Pro: Clutch Performer
What makes Derrick Rose popular is his ability to do the unimaginable when driving the lane or getting out in transition. What makes Rose special, however, is his proven ability to step up in high-pressure situations.
By all means and measures, Rose is a clutch performer who wants the big shot and has a track record of making it.
Knicks fans have received look after look at how comfortable Rose is with handling the ball in clutch situations. He’s made a number of big shots in the final moments of close games, including a step-back jumper that sealed a victory over the Portland Trail Blazers.
For those who missed it, Rose did the following against Portland:
On the other end, Rose blocked Kemba Walker’s attempt at a game-tying shot at the end of a 113-111 overtime victory against the Charlotte Hornets.
Rose has been clutch throughout the 2016-17 season, whether he’s been heralded for it or not. That’s reason to keep him in New York, as the Knicks are a team that are playing for postseason success and not mere regular season glory.
With 41 games of postseason experience and an Eastern Conference Finals appearance under his belt, Rose has proven capable of winning when it counts.