Houston Rockets: Grading The Offseason

Re-Signing The Red Bull

A few facts about Patrick Beverley: 1) He’s a defensive pain in the ass, 2) He’s a good fit with the Houston Rockets, but he’s not the ideal starter for a team that wants to contend for titles and 3) For some reason, Grantland’s “Red Bull” suggestion as a nickname for Patrick Beverley has not caught on.

In any case, bringing back Beverley on a four-year, $25 million deal is a pretty great bargain whether he’s coming off the bench or starting alongside James Harden next season.

People take Beverley for granted, but having a constant irritant who will harass opposing point guards up and down the floor is a huge help to the defense and, just as importantly, a major source of attitude for this Rockets team. Don’t forget, Houston made it all the way to the Western Conference Finals while playing the old man duo of Jason Terry and Pablo Prigioni at point guard.

Beverley is also an underrated fit with Houston’s offense, nailing 38.1 percent of his catch-and-shoot three-pointers last season, per NBA.com. Though he’s not much of a creator on offense, Harden’s prowess in that area means he doesn’t have to be.

Just as long as he can hound people on defense, knock down a few open looks, annoy opponents and, hopefully, stay healthy for the playoffs, the Rockets got a great deal here.

Grade: A-

Next: Brewing Up An Extension