When the Knicks acquired Derrick Rose this summer in a blockbuster trade with the Bulls, the futures for Rose and the Knicks were both apparent.
In Rose, the Knicks got a supremely talented, former NBA MVP who also has an unfortunate injury history. When healthy, he's one of the league's best point guards. So far, Rose has lived up to expectations, as he did once again Sunday night. Returning to the lineup after missing the past two games with back spasms — the first games he's missed this year — Rose scored 25 points on 12-of-16 shooting to lead the Knicks to a 118-112 victory over the Lakers in Los Angeles.
New York, which finished a dismal 32-50 last season, is now 14-10. In Rose the team finally has the point guard it's been desperately seeking for more than a decade. Recall the trades that brought point guards Stephon Marbury to New York in 2004, Steve Francis in 2006 and then Chauncey Billups in 2011.
All those deals failed to move the team forward. The Knicks have made the playoffs just five times since 2000, and advanced past the first round only once in that period.
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In Rose, the Knicks now have a floor leader and prolific scorer who can balance the floor between veteran star Carmelo Anthony and second-year big man Kristaps Porzingis
But Rose's bloom in New York may be brief. The 28-year-old guard is in the final year of his contract, and in this era of huge NBA money, he will command a huge contract. Team president Phil Jackson will have a tough decision to make.
That decision might be a little easier if Rose stays healthy and leads the Knicks deep into the postseason.
Stud of the night
The Pelicans don't count on big scoring contributions from veteran forward Reggie Williams; he came into Sunday's game against the Suns averaging 2 points per game. But the former VMI star went off against Phoenix, scoring 17 points, thanks to 4-of-5 shooting behind the arc. Those kinds of performances will earn anyone more playing time.
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Dud of the night
The NBA's leading scorer, Anthony Davis (31.4 points per game), had a rare off night against the Suns, hitting only 4-of-17 from the field. He still finished with 14 points and 12 rebounds. But by his lofty standards, not a good night.
Highlight
Kids, this is what happens when you don't block out on the defensive boards. Karl-Anthony Towns will make you pay.
Incoming! 🔨 #NBAVine https://t.co/wq3hVidxRj
— NBA (@NBA) December 12, 2016
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What's next
Charlotte Hornets (14-10) at Indiana Pacers (12-12), 7 p.m. ET — Hornets star Kemba Walker left Saturday's game against the Cavaliers with a left knee contusion and is listed as day to day. Not what the Hornets needed as they head to Indianapolis for the second of five consecutive road games. Paul George leads the Pacers with 21.8 points per game.