New York Knicks: Who Stepped Up Against The Indiana Pacers?

Dec 20, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) and teammates celebrate their win against the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) and teammates celebrate their win against the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 20, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (25) drives to the basket against Indiana Pacers forward C.J. Miles (0) during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (25) drives to the basket against Indiana Pacers forward C.J. Miles (0) during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

Derrick Rose

The New York Knicks missed Derrick Rose against the Golden State Warriors and Denver Nuggets. Against the Indiana Pacers, he put forth an outstanding effort on both ends of the floor as he scored, created, and defended Jeff Teague’s drives to near perfection.

With fresh legs and a hunger to prove he can still play after his recent back injuries, Rose came out with one of his best showings of the season.

Rose was explosive against Indiana, posting 24 points, six assists, four rebounds, and two blocks in 36 minutes. His back held up just fine as he shot an efficient 9-of-18 from the field and 6-of-7 from the free throw line.

That includes a gorgeous driving finish to put the game away, during which Rose utilized his incomparable speed and power to get to the rim.

In a testament to how clutch he’s been this season, Rose scored 11 of his 24 points during the fourth quarter. He didn’t force the issue, but instead picked his spots and shred the Pacers’ defense to pieces in key moments.

In case critics still want him him to shoot less, the Knicks have won four consecutive games when Rose scores at least 20 points.

Must Read: Revisiting the rivalry with the Indiana Pacers

For the first time this season, the New York Knicks have won a game after the fourth quarter with a deficit.