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Rook Check: Derrick Rose Under Control

Oct 29, 2008 – 6:07 PM
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Nate Jones

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Rook Check takes a look at the progress of NBA Rookies throughout the season.

Last night, number one overall pick Derrick Rose made his NBA debut. Rose's numbers -- 11 points, 9 assists, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals in 32 minutes -- don't jump off the page, but believe me, Rose was very impressive last night.

I guess the most impressive aspect of his well rounded performance was how poised and under control he was. Yes, he did have 4 turnovers, but he's a rookie point guard in his first real NBA game. Outside of once in a generation exceptions like Chris Paul, rookie point guards will make some initial mistakes. But outside of those few mistakes, Rose was in complete control.

For the Bulls, Rose looks like he will be just what the doctor ordered. Despite former Bulls coach Scott Skiles' man crush on Kirk Hinrich, it's obvious that the team really needed an upgrade at the position. Tyrus Thomas, Joakim Noah, and Luol Deng all need people to set them up for their shots. Prior to Rose, the Bulls really didn't have a true play making point guard that could get those guys involved. After the first game, it seems like that problem has been solved.

The bottom line is that this team is built to push the ball and score points. Rose's arrival will finally allow them to do that. Someone please put Mike D'Antoni on suicide watch.

Take a look at some of the highlights from Roses Rookie debut. Calling Rose explosive is definitely an understatement.

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