Derrick Rose has been the secret stuff keeping the New York Knicks alive in the postseason. The former MVP is playing at an All-Star level once again, and he's had to go toe-to-toe with Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young.
While the Hawks have the upper hand after taking Game 3, Derrick Rose spoke out about why he's not worried about Young all that much, via a report from The Athletic's Mike Vorkunov.
“He’s been playing great,” Rose said. “But I think we have a few more coverages. They was just knocking down shots … We wasn’t talking. We wasn’t making second — or I wasn’t — I know a few times I didn’t make a second or third effort to contest shots. If you’re not making them plays with a shooting team like this, there’s no way you’re going to win games.”
The Knicks had one of the best defenses in the NBA, and were tops in defending the three-point line. The Hawks made a record-setting total from downtown in Game 3, going a scorching hot 16-for-27 from deep. Rose is confident that won't happen again.
With Julius Randle mired in a massive slump through three games, it's been up to Rose to provide dynamic play for the Knicks thus far. The 3-time All-Star has posted averages of 24.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per contest, which isn't too far off from his production during his best years. His efficiency has been the key, as he's shooting a stellar 51.7% from the field and has made exactly half of his 12 three-point attempts thus far.
Until the Knicks get Randle back playing at full strength, they'll need Rose to keep bringing it in order to match Trae Young.
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