Shams Charania of The Athletic reports that the “Knicks are engaged in active talks to acquire Derrick Rose.” Additionally, Rose and the Pistons organization have agreed that a trade would be “best for both sides.”
The Pistons have struggled out the gate. While they have had a tough schedule to start the season, the Pistons lack the talent to compete for a play-in spot this year. Particularly, aging stars Derrick Rose and Blake Griffin have not played well.
At last season’s trade deadline, there were reports of teams vying for Rose’s service to supplement a playoff run. At the time, Rose was having a strong season, so the Pistons raised the asking price. Unfortunately, it may have been too much as he stayed put in Detroit. Now Rose is struggling out the gate, and it is unlikely the Knicks will give up a first-round pick for Rose.
Second Time Reuniting
If this trade goes through, it wouldn’t be the first time Rose and his former Chicago Bulls coach, Tom Thibodeau, have reunited after their time with the Bulls. They previously were apart of the Minnesota Timberwolves when Thibodeau had a hand in the front office and the head coach position.
Regarding Rose and the Knicks, Rose played with Carmelo Anthony and Kristaps Porzingis in the 2016-2017 season on the Knicks.
Earlier this season, the Knicks signed another former Bull, Taj Gibson. Gibson was also in their stint with the Timberwolves. Both Gibson and Rose should help reiterate Thibodeau’s philosophies on both sides of the ball. The Knicks also have budding talent at the big man and guard position in RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and Obi Toppin. Hopefully, Gibson and Rose can help bring them along.
Where are the Knicks Going?
This move raises questions about the direction of the Knicks franchise, once again. Julius Randle is having a career year, but their roster construction doesn’t suggest they can make a dent in the playoffs.
The Knicks have relied on their defense to get them to a decent record. However, there is evidence that the Knicks defense is a result of weak opponent shooting. Opponents shoot the lowest percentage from three in the NBA against the Knicks.
Their surprising start can turn into ugliness if teams shooting get back to average against the Knicks. They don’t have the offensive firepower to compete when their defense is faltering.
As previously said, the Rose and Gibson signing might be for mentorship, but the Knicks need to start adding players that can shoot the ball to surround Randle, Toppin, Quickley, and Barrett.
Last season, they signed multiple veteran pieces on short-term deals when Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant didn’t come their way. Instead of swinging for the fences, they should be looking towards a youth movement and building a roster that compliments their young players’ skillset.
On the Brightside…
The Knicks currently have the Dallas Mavericks unprotected first-round pick from the Kristaps Porzingis trade. The Mavericks have gotten off to a poor start to the season. They are 14th in the west at 9-14. If that pick turns into a lottery selection, the Knicks could be in a great spot.
