New York Knicks: What We Learned From The Loss To Cleveland

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Dec 4, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (25) shoots against Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. New York Knicks won 106-98. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

3. The Knicks Need Derrick Rose

Brandon Jennings did an admirable job in relief of Derrick Rose against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Rose’s absence firmly established how valuable he is to the New York Knicks, however, and that applies to both the offensive and defensive ends of the floor.

Jennings is one of the best backup point guards imaginable, but the Knicks need the 1-2 punch in order to maximize their potential.

Rose has never been confused with a lockdown defender, but his ability to create off the bounce is invaluable. He’s not just creating jump shots, but driving the lane and collapsing defenses with his ability to get to the rim.

Without Rose on the court, the Knicks struggled to create penetration and thus ran an overall ineffective and inefficient offense.

Rose is No. 8 in the NBA in points via drives per game. His ability to collapse a defense prevents transition scoring opportunities on the other end, just as his strength and length have been effective against scoring point guards.

Rose may not have been the difference between a win and a loss, but it’s quite clear that Rose is a significant difference maker.

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