New York Knicks: 3 Reasons Derrick Rose is a critical postseason X-Factor
By Allen Settle
Derrick Rose’s closing ability has been invaluable to the New York Knicks
Who are the NBA players that come to mind when you think about clutch performers? Perhaps its superstar LeBron James? Or perennial hero Damian Lillard? What about scoring masters like Kevin Durant or Steph Curry?
Each of these players has an impressive resume as late-game closers. However, how many of them boast the same level of success and memorable moments as Rose?
Prime D-Rose has a menagerie of game-winning shots.
Remember this playoff moment against James and the Cavaliers?
What about this recent beauty during his time in Minnesota? (Lest you be tempted to think his heroics are exclusively a thing of the past)
Need more? Check out the former MVP’s career end-of-game resume.
It is common knowledge that points are most difficult to come by in a postseason setting. Teams and coaching staffs have much more time to scheme, while players are more intense and motivated than ever. This is the most typical reason why inexperienced teams (like the Knicks) struggle to adjust to the different pace of play. This will be especially important for a team like New York, which lacks proven talent and experience (see below).
Randle has proven that he can handle a big workload. RJ Barrett has developed nicely over the course of the season. And the rest of the roster offers a solid supporting cast. However, at the end of the day, the New York Knicks will need a go-to closer in the game’s most important moments.
Who better to have the ball in their hands than the savvy former #1 overall pick?