Derrick Rose sat out two games after suffering from back spasms when the Knicks defeated the Miami Heat. Against the Lakers, Rose poured in 25 points in 34 minutes of action as the Knicks won 118-112.
Rose had to undergo an MRI before being allowed to play against the Lakers. Results showed no structural damage as the Knicks were a bit cautious on fielding in the former NBA MVP, ESPN reported.
Rose needs to prove that he still has the jets to perform at the NBA level, particularly since he will be a free agent after this season. He is owed $21.23 million this year, part of the original $94 million contract he had with the Chicago Bulls.
After this season, Rose could see a dwindle in numbers which are largely due to the injuries he has suffered through the years. Regardless, he has shown that he can still be effective on the court for as long as he plays with caution.
For Nerlens Noel, he tries to regain a spot in the Sixer cramped forward line, for now, CSN Philly reported. He has been tied up to several trade rumors though nothing has come to fruition.
Noel has been linked to several teams such as the Boston Celtics, Portland Trail Blazers, and the Toronto Raptors. Nothing has gone beyond that though interested ballclubs will keep a close eye on the progress of the 22-year-old University of Kentucky alumnus. He is coming off arthroscopic knee surgery on his left knee.
Noel will need to prove that he still deserves his slot up front. That includes competing with other big men like Jahlil Okafor, Dario Saric, and even Joel Embiid. Should he prove to be effective, Sixers coach Brett Brown may have to tweak the starting lineup as the Sixers try to improve in the Eastern Conference standings,
Aside from that, it will also be interesting if a deal will take place. With the trade deadline still months away, Noel could end up donning a new uniform anytime soon. Until that happens, he needs to show all that he has properly recovered from knee injury.
In the meantime, Derrick Rose talks about his back spasm problems in the video below.