New York Knicks: Key Matchups To Watch Against Indiana Pacers

3. Derrick Rose vs. Jeff Teague

The New York Knicks have learned just how valuable Derrick Rose is over the past two weeks. He’s missed four full games, the fourth quarter of the 114-103 win over the Miami Heat, and all but 10 minutes of the 113-111 overtime loss to the Phoenix Suns due to back injuries.

The issue may or may not be severe enough to threaten Rose’s season, but even four missed games out of 27 has cost the Knicks dearly.

Against the Indiana Pacers, Rose will need to make an instantly productive and rewarding return to the rotation. Pacers point guard Jeff Teague has been one of the most solid players in the Eastern Conference since he was drafted in 2009, and he’s beginning to find his form in Indiana.

Rose has been fun to watch and invaluable to team success when he’s played, but there’s still rational cause for concern against the rival Pacers.

Teague is currently averaging 15.3 points, 7.1 assists, 4.0 rebounds, 1.9 steals, and 0.9 3-point field goals made per game. He’s struggling to convert from beyond the arc in 2016-17, but is a career 35.1 percent shooter from distance.

If Rose fails to defend, penetrate, and create at respectable levels, Teague could have a big game at Madison Square Garden.

Keep in mind: Teague has at least 20 points and 10 assists in two of his past three games.