Derrick Rose, a rose somehow sprouting from the harsh concrete of Chicago, whose strength, speed and skills in high school dazzled Chicagoans. Not only did he sound like a legend in high school but he actually got drafted to Chicago against all odds. This was the hero Chicago needed and wanted. He won the MVP award later on but the now-familiar injuries struck him. Injuries that basically broke an amazing player forever. His heart and soul were there but the speed and strength was gone. Although he was scoring well after the All-Star game his impact on the team just wasn't the same. Then two days ago something unthinkable happened: 'Derrick Rose traded to Knicks for Lopez, and others' I didn't believe that at first and it truly confused me. Chicago traded their trademark player (I guess now he is truly a trade mark) and their hometown hero. What could've caused this trade to happen? Let's go through what the teams get in this trade and maybe that''l help us understand what each team wanted.
So the Knicks gave us Robin Lopez, the frizzy-haired brother of Brook Lopez. He averaged 10 PPG, and a little over 7 RPG but he was a monster at defense. He might be the only reason the Knicks had any defense whatsoever. So the Knicks lost their primary defender and starting center. They also lost Jerian Grant, a Notre Dame star who could score and is quick. Although he didn't do much in New York we can probably blame that on how poorly they develop players through their triangle offense. The Knicks also lost Jose Calderon, who was their only veteran player. In return they got Derrick Rose, who can help as another scoring weapon for Carmelo. Which would be enough if he chipped in at least 16 PPG. He also adds extra leadership at the PG position, which New York lacked. Rose has little shooting ability, and the Knicks also don't have very much. This is a problem for a game that is quickly being absorbed by the powers you can have behind the 3-point line.
So in conclusion:
Knicks lost- Defense, shooting, and a veteran.
Knicks got- Scoring, leadership at point guard position.
The Bulls lost their money-making player and idol, whose scoring and effort will greatly be missed as well as his love and support for the city of Chicago. However with Rose out Jimmy Butler could score more and become an even bigger threat than he already is, possibly becoming one of the league's best. He may become the best two way player now. They also got a young player who they can train in Jerian Grant, whose speed and ability to get to the rim will be helpful once rehabilitated from the horrors he faced in New York. They got a veteran in Jose Calderon who will help the team function at the guard position and possibly mentor Grant with Aaron Brooks. He also adds a little Spanish flavor with his shooting abilities. Brook Lopez will fill the big-man spot Joakim Noah will probably leave, we already know Lopez can defend and can allow players to function better around him. That being said I will be heartbroken when Joakim leaves, the ballsiest player in the league, I'll miss his non-stop effort and the love he showed to the city of Chicago. His jersey will definitely be up in the rafters one day, and I''l be there when it is put up.
Bulls lost- Heroic player, PG help.
Bulls got- Defensive help, young talent, a veteran guard, shooting, and potential with the draft pick (Denzel Valentine, I honestly couldn't be happier, he adds scoring and shooting help.).
So it looks like the Bulls won this trade, and the Knicks lost once again.
We'll miss you Derrick, and thank you for all the help, support, and effort on a daily basis.
--KSP--
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