Derrick Rose ends Knicks’ point guard battle before it even began

#News #Sports #DerrickRose #Knicks #point #guard #battle #began Derrick Rose ends Knicks’ point guard battle before it even began #UsNews The Knicks’ starting point guard battle is over before it even started. Derrick Rose anointed newcomer Kemba Walker as the Knicks’ starting point guard during Monday’s media day. On Friday, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said nothing was “etched in stone,” but Rose has already conceded. The Knicks’ first formal practice is Tuesday. In his standout 2020-21 season, Rose excelled off the bench and plans to do so again, giving Walker the bigger stage. “He’s starting, he’s starting,” Rose said Monday. “Whatever it takes to just change the game. I’m not worried about minutes or playing time. I know Thibs is gonna handle that. But I feel like we have a deep team.” Asked why it’s important Walker starts, Rose said, “I’m on Year 14. I’m appreciative to be here. He’s a starter. Coming in, he has a lot to prove being from New York. You have to give him the stage, being that he’s from here. You have to give him the opportunity. It’s not [about] fighting for a spot. My job is to fill in. But I just have to stay ready.’’ Indeed Rose does as Walker’s knee is never a sure thing to hold up to the grind of an 82-game schedule. Walker, the Bronx native who signed a two-year, $18 million deal in August after his $74 million pact was bought out by the Thunder, seemed genuinely moved Rose wants him to start.