New York Knicks: Derrick Rose Describes Triangle Offense as Complicated
New York Knicks point guard Derrick Rose described the triangle offense as complicated. Fortunately, he has ample time to absorb the offensive system.
Ask any optimistic New York Knicks fan about the club’s season outlook, and they’ll tell you it’s a 50-plus win team.
As expected there’s much buzz around former Chicago Bulls stalwarts Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah. However, the Knicks’ new point guard revealed his thoughts on the triangle offense, per New York Daily News reporter Stefan Bondy:
Today Knicks worked on the triangle. Derrick Rose said there's "like 40 or 50 options" and "it's a little bit complicated right now."
— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) September 29, 2016
During the Knicks’ pre-Media Day press conferences, head coach Jeff Hornacek talked about utilizing the triangle offense in half-court situations. Overall, the team will run a fast-paced offense.
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Nonetheless, team president Phil Jackson’s triangle concept could cause some bumps in the road as Rose adjusts to his new team under Hornacek.
As the floor general, it’s important for Rose to grasp the offense in all situations to optimize scoring opportunities. His candid statement about the endless options within the triangle package indicates early growing pains.
The Knicks won’t come out firing on all cylinders as most optimists envision at the moment.
In reality, we should expect good and bad, not only from Rose, but the team as a whole. Nine new players must acclimate their skill sets into a new system with a new voice leading the roster.
As for Rose, he’ll likely lean on forwards Carmelo Anthony and Kristaps Porzingis to familiarize himself with the basic principles in a half-court setup. With the Bulls, the veteran point operated in a more methodical approach during his latter years. In his heyday, before the injuries, Rose controlled the flow on the offensive end. He often dictated pace, drew defenders with penetrations and kicked out to open shooters.
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In the upcoming season, Rose must use his mind as much as his athleticism to find his teammates. On some occasion, instead of driving to the paint, the triangle offense requires him to move the ball in the right direction. The point guard has immense freedom of choice. It’s not a mystery concept but ball movement and decision-making become paramount.
Once Rose becomes familiar with his teammates, his decision-making with ball possession should improve. However, it’s fair to give him adequate time to learn the system. Initially, the Knicks offense will look sloppy at times within the first few months. If the struggles linger, it’s up to Hornacek to tweak the design to fit his players’ strengths.