Rose Chokes, Memphis Loses

Well, I wouldn't say choked. But Derrick Rose did have a chance to ice the game last night and failed miserably. Without him, Memphis wouldn't have been in the position to win, but it was still disappointing to see him miss a free throw that would have sealed the deal and the title. Eerily reminiscent of the Game 6 free throws that Dwyane Wade missed. Luckily, Miami pulled off the victory anyway. Not so for the unfortunate Tigers, who I felt looked like the better team (but not by much).

It goes to show that one moment doesn't have to make or break a player's career. Rose is one of the top 2 talents in the draft, and most people seem to think he is the logical selection for the Heat if he is available. 18 of the 23 people who voted on the poll on this site preferred Rose over Beasley. I would venture to say that Riley will likely select Rose if we have the option. He just fits a bigger need and is the best option to play with Wade long-term.

I have to say I'm impressed with Rose overall. He looked like he had a killer instinct late in the game, save for the missed free throw. His penetrating ability is excellent and he might be the best rebounding guard I've seen come out in some time. He would be a huge asset to the Heat and even if Michael Beasley ends up being a superstar, I would feel comfortable drafting Derrick Rose.