Grizzlies guard highlights ‘hardest thing’ about overtime win over Pacers

On Sunday, the Memphis Grizzlies took part in in-game action for the first time since their April 28 series-clinching loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2023 NBA Playoffs. Though it may have only been preseason, the exhibition provided players the opportunity to display their contributions to the team and hone their chemistry with their running mates.

For Derrick Rose, however, it was a chance for him to adjust and grow more comfortable with his new situation out in Memphis, as he signed with the franchise back in July following a nearly three-year stint with the New York Knicks.

Following the contest, the veteran guard took part in an on-court interview, and, during the discussion, he highlighted what, in particular, proved to be the “hardest thing” when it comes to trying to get acclimated with his teammates.

Grizzlies’ Derrick Rose highlights ‘hardest thing’ about adjusting to teammates

"“The hardest thing is learning guys’ games — knowing their sweat spots, when they want the ball, when they don’t want the ball, and, for me, not turning the ball over,” Rose said. “For me pushing the ball, pushing the pace. I got nothing but shooters around. I think it’s going to help.”"

Even with these discussed difficulties, Rose’s debut with the Grizzlies wound up going incredibly smooth, as he proved to be one of the driving forces for the club throughout the night.

Netting the start at point guard with the absences of both Ja Morant (suspension) and fellow newcomer Marcus Smart (abdomen), the 35-year-old finished the contest with an impressive box score of 13 points and 2 assists while shooting 75.0 percent from the field and 100 percent from distance (albeit on just one attempt).

He would also finish tied for Memphis’ second-highest box plus-minus of +6, which should come as no surprise for those who actually watched him perform, as his aggressiveness, leadership, quickness, and agility were on full display and led to tremendous all-around team production during his 13 minutes of leading the offense.

Many of his new Grizzlies teammates were found singing Rose’s praise following his debut performance, with Ziaire Williams suggesting this effective showing came as no surprise to the club, for he said “We’ve been seeing it” all throughout training camp.

Hopefully, fans may also continue to see more of this as the preseason progresses as well as during the upcoming regular season.

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