Nothin' But Nets
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Comparing the Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks Starting Five

By Malcolm Ireland

Apr 1, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) shoots over Brooklyn Nets guard Sean Kilpatrick (6) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) shoots over Brooklyn Nets guard Sean Kilpatrick (6) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 13, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose (1) attempts to steal the ball away from Charlotte Hornets guard Jeremy Lin (7) during the second half at the United Center. The Chicago Bulls defeat the Charlotte Hornets 102-97. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose (1) attempts to steal the ball away from Charlotte Hornets guard Jeremy Lin (7) during the second half at the United Center. The Chicago Bulls defeat the Charlotte Hornets 102-97. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

Point Guard Matchup: Jeremy Lin vs. Derrick Rose

The Knicks made a big splash at point guard this summer. In a trade involving Robin Lopez, Jose Calderon, and Jerian Grant, the Knicks were able to acquire former MVP, Derrick Rose. Rose has had many injuries since he tore his ACL in 2012. After playing 66 games last season, Rose was able to average 16.4 points, 4.7 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game. It seems Rose is starting to find his way again and will have a fresh start in New York.

On Brooklyn’s side, the Nets went out and signed Jeremy Lin. With Lin returning to the New York area and being a starter again, fans are hoping he will be productive at point guard. Lin averaged 11.7 points, three assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game last season with Charlotte. It was not Lin’s best season, but he was not the sole point guard on the team. The point guard position very much belonged to Kemba Walker. Hopefully, given a starting role in Brooklyn, Lin will produce more.

The head-to-head matchup of Lin and Rose heavily favors Rose. Rose is still an athletic freak. He may not be able to finish around the rim like he once could, but he is still quick with the ball. Even with Lin’s improved defense over the past season, it is hard to imagine him slowing down Rose. The good news for the Nets is Rose has to choose when he will use his burst of speed. This will play in the Nets’ favor, as Rose will not attack the basket every play.