How the New York Knicks can be title contenders in three years

New York Knicks: Add another solid veteran piece

The Derrick Rose experiment is now more than just a fairytale idea. It’s a reality that Rose has strengthened this New York Knicks team and given them a great addition off the bench.

His veteran presence applies leadership to a young team that’s been ready to absorb it, but it’d be foolish to stop there.

Derrick Rose hasn’t just been the veteran that came to New York to help the process. He’s been as key a part as anyone in why New York is winning games (12 of 13 to be exact). Just look at his game logs over the past month-plus.

Since coming to the Knicks, Rose has been one of the best sixth men in the NBA and it’s only getting better. He’s scored 20 or more in five of the last eight, including a season-high 25 points against Memphis.

Rose has also served as a good change of pace off the bench. His style complements other Knicks players who are good off the dribble-drive, which has created for noteworthy offensive movement and a team that isn’t just one-dimensional with its defense but can also score the ball.

Looking at free agents for next year, a few names jump off the board. DeMar DeRozan could be a good fit – an aging star who could lengthen his career by accepting a lower role with the New York Knicks. His mid-range game would easily fit in with the Knicks’ style.

But other veteran names like Serge Ibaka, Kelly Olynyk, and Paul Millsap could really provide New York with solid veteran play at a spot on the floor where they could really benefit from it. Taj Gibson has done well, but they’d all be upgrades and would come at a low price.