The Detroit Pistons have agreed to a deal with the Knicks to send Derrick Rose to New York in exchange for Dennis Smith Jr. What is the impact of this trade?
The two point guards will be swapping jerseys, with the Pistons gaining additional draft compensations.
Derrick Rose trade rumors began as early as last season, as many contenders were looking to acquire the veteran point guard. No deal came to fruition and Rose remained on the Pistons roster to start the 2020-2021 season.
While Rose had previously mentioned that he was content with his mentorship role with the Pistons, it was clear that Rose would not remain a Piston for the long term.
Rose, being an NBA veteran at this point in his career, is looking to capitalize on the remainder of his athletic resurgence. I used my words carefully, because while Rose is not the face of the league that he used to be, he has certainly made strides to improve his game to remain effective after a decline caused by multiple injuries.
His value the past two seasons has been as high as it’s ever been post-MVP season, with Rose averaging roughly 18 points and five assists in his latest two full seasons with the Pistons and Timberwolves.
While Rose’s veteran leadership and on court play will be sorely missed for the Pistons, this is ultimately a very positive trade for the Pistons that should have Pistons fans excited.