For Houston fans, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the brilliance of this team.
The Houston Rockets is currently on top of the Western Conference (21-4 as of December 11) and this team looks capable of staying there. One reason is Houston’s high-scoring offense.
Courtesy: The Sporting News
Newly acquired Chris Paul has helped James Harden carry the load. Efficient at facilitating the offense, the Rockets have yet to lose a game with Paul in the lineup.
But make no mistake about it: getting Paul was a gamble. First, Harden was coming off a fantastic season playing the point. And, second, the Rockets gave up a number of role players to complete the trade.
Paul wasn’t oblivious to either issue, especially about taking over the point from Harden. “We talked…. He had a great year last year. Everything was about winning games. He just wants to win,” Paul said.
One reason the Rockets are off to a fast start is that it didn’t take much time for the team to adjust to Paul’s game. The formula for a quick transition is that Harden and Paul are two of the most selfless guard in the league.
Team results tell all.
–1st in 3-point attempts per game (43 with 36% FG percentage)
–2nd in offensive rating with 115.2
–5th in defensive rating at 103.9.
–52% of their shots coming off three’s
–On pace to record the best offensive season in franchise history — 115.2 offensive rating per 100 possessions, and
–On pace to have a franchise first 60+ win.
And Harden is on yet another MVP run. With stats surpassing previous seasons, As of December 10, Harden leads the NBA in these categories: PPG, 32.3; FG attempts, 513; 3-point FG attempts, 106/261; Offensive Win Shares, 4.8; Win Shares, 6.0; Win Shares per 48 minutes, .334; Usage Percentage, 36.1; Box Plus/Minus, 11.7; and Offensive Box Plus/Minus, 11.0
For Houston fans, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the brilliance of this team.
