Part of what made Derrick Rose so exciting early in his career was his explosive play. The point guard would shoot like a cannon down the court by defenders or launch into the air over players much bigger than him.
However, a lot has changed for Rose since those early seasons. Three knee surgeries later, Rose still has a quick step, but has struggled to show that vertical launch he once had.
In the 15 games Rose has played so far this season, Rose has yet to dunk the ball during a game. In fact, he hasn’t dunked in a game since Game 1 against the Milwaukee Bucks in the Eastern Conference Playoffs last season.
Rose’s inability to dunk has had a direct impact on his ability to finish around the hoop. The former MVP is shooting just 46 percent at the rim on the season. That’s well below his career average and even seven percent lower than the next closest season.
Because he’s never been a high level shooter, Rose is dependent on his ability to get to the hoop and finish. Without that, he may struggle to return to being an elite player.
Stats via Basketball Reference
