The New York Knicks are heading into something of an important NBA season.
Two years ago this group made the playoffs as a No. 4 seed. Last season, they failed to match that – much less exceed it.
One big reason for New York’s struggles was the regression of team star Julius Randle. In addition to his objectively worsening play, the 27-year-old also responded extremely poorly to criticism.
This week, at Knicks media day, veteran guard Derrick Rose said something that many have construed as a possible jab at Randle’s general way of being in 2021-22.
“I think what this year’s all about is accountability,” he said.
“Like being able to not get in your feelings or taking it personal when somebody’s coming over and giving you constructive criticism.
“As a man and as a professional, you’re supposed to understand that. Y’all can talk s**t back to each other here and now of get mad, but you leave it on the court after practice or after that game or after that moment.”
Randle’s issues are a matter of public record at this point. There is a reason no team in the NBA wanted to acquire him this summer despite his massive body transformation. He is just viewed as too much of an unreliable piece – physically and mentally.
Time will tell if there is any sort of shift this season.
As for Rose, it’s unsurprising that he would speak so openly on this topic. He has really stepped into a leadership role for the squad so far this summer.
He made a pretty big change physically heading into the new year, and clearly he is looking to inspire his group to do better. It remains to be seen whether Rose will be successful or not in that regard.
Can the Knicks bounce back from last season’s disappointments and return to the playoffs in 2022-23?
An answer one way or the other will emerge soon enough.
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