Dec 4, 2017
Thoughts on Rose, Carroll and more
TSN Basketball Analyst Jack Armstrong returns with thoughts on Derrick Rose returning to the Cavs, the Eastern Conference, Danilo Gallinari's injury, Demarre Carroll's resurgence and Terry Rozier.
1. DERRICK ROSE (Cavs): It looks like the Cleveland guard will make his return soon after another injury absence. The Cavs have won 11 games in a row. Just wait until Isaiah Thomas suits up, along with the eventual return of Tristan Thompson and Iman Shumpert from injury. Those additions will make this squad that much more dangerous when you think of elite teams in the league. Things are going smoothly in Cleveland after a bumpy start to the season.
2. EASTERN CONFERENCE: I was thinking about the standings in the East over the weekend. If you’re one of the top four seeds as of today (Celtics, Cavs, Raptors and Pistons) are you really excited about having to play (if the playoffs began today) a young and scary 76ers squad? Would you want the Bucks, who will have Jabari Parker back in February? The Wizards are without John Wall at the moment, but they’re no pushovers. What about a potent and efficient Indiana Pacers squad? There are no easy outs in the East this year. The conference is on the rise.
3. DANILO GALLINARI (Clippers): The Los Angeles forward is hoping to be back from injury this week. The injury-prone veteran has only played nine games for the sinking Clippers, and he has been struggling with his shooting (35.5 per cent from the floor and 26 per cent on threes). The Clippers need him to get on track and play to his potential to give them another consistent and productive piece.
4. DEMARRE CARROLL (Nets): Give him credit. He has rediscovered his passion, pop and identity as a player in Brooklyn after two very disappointing seasons in Toronto. He’s done a nice job with his hustling style, giving them a sound, experienced player who is helping in the rebuild process. Carroll is averaging 14 points and seven rebounds a night, while making 37.1 per cent of his threes. Carroll is looking like a good pickup for the Nets as he bridges the gap at that position.
5. TERRY ROZIER (Celtics): I like the energy, toughness, grit and defensive skill he brings off the bench for Boston coach Brad Stevens. Makes close to 38 per cent of his threes, is fearless attacking the basket and keeps the pressure on you. He’s developing nicely in their style of play. His two-way game is a solid fit.