Derrick Rose is on a short list of players who get a second shot at playing in The Mecca. After his brief 64 game stint with the Knicks in 2016-17, Rose is excited that he’s getting another chance to rock the orange and blue.
“Other hoopers always used to tell me that if I ever had the chance to play in the MECCA go for it,” Rose wrote on instagram. “I’m getting a second chance… Got to make this one count. But I’m built for it,” he said.
Rose had a surprisingly good season for the Knicks during the Phil Jackson era. He averaged 18.0 points 4.4 assists and 3.8 rebounds on 47% shooting from the field that season. Jackson reportedly wanted to bring Rose back, but was fired and replaced by Steve Mills who decided to move in another direction.
The Knicks’ twitter account caught Rose arriving at the Miami airport ahead of tonight’s game against the Heat. He said he’s “grateful” and “anxious” about the trade.
“I thought it wasn’t going to happen at first. A lot goes into being traded. I’m feeling grateful, anxious, but at the same time I know what I have to do coming here. You know, helping the young guys, playing as hard as I can and, for one, thanking Thibs [Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau].’’
While it’s fair to wonder whether or not Immanuel Quickley’s role will diminish after this move, Rose’s comments should set people’s minds at ease. He knows he’s coming in with more of a mentor role this time around and it doesn’t appear he’s eager to steal the shine from the young guys.
When Rose is able to play, he’ll rock No. 4 – Dennis Smith Jr.’s old number – because Reggie Bullock already wears No. 25. He may have to wait a few more days to make his second Garden debut, though.
Steve Popper of Newsday is reporting that, while Rose is in Miami and cleared to play, NBA rules may prohibit him from playing tonight against the Heat.
“Are you still searching for your treasure or are you still content with working at the crystal shop,” Rose said via instagram. “This experience called life will always challenge you to your core. Especially if you are trying to master your craft.”
