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

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Jan 23, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (25) makes a pass against Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) and guard Jeff Teague (44) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. New York defeats Indiana 109-103. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

Derrick Rose

Derrick Rose played more minutes than any other player on either side of the New York Knicks’ 109-103 win over the Indiana Pacers. During his time on the court, Rose blended questionable decisions with sensational plays.

The good outweighed the bad for Rose, who finished with a +/- of +8 and was a critical contributor to the Knicks’ 20th win.

Rose finished with 20 points, six assists, and three rebounds in 40 eventful minutes against the Pacers. He went 7-of-16 from the field, which includes a number of stunning plays at the rim, and shot a perfect 6-of-6 from the free throw line.

Rose may not be dunking on players in the way he did in 2011-12, but he’s still as fast and agile as any point guard in the NBA.

New York improved to 11-7 when Rose records at least five assists and 9-19 when he fails to reach that number. He missed two opportunities to find an open Kristaps Porzingis in the fourth quarter, but he’s still continuing to show progress as a facilitator.

Rose has recorded at least five assists in four of the Knicks’ past five games, which is an encouraging sign given his previously poor play in that regard.

Must Read: A January evaluation of 2017 NBA Draft targets

Behind a beautiful team effort and unforgettable clutch heroics, the New York Knicks have improved to 20-26.

Next up: the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on Wednesday, Jan. 25.

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