Houston Rockets: 5 keys to contending in 2017-18
1. An all-time great offense
We started off this article pointing out the importance of having an elite defense if you have any hopes of competing for a championship. That is still a big goal for the Rockets to achieve this season. But Houston must also focus on not only maintaining their elite offense, but improving on it come playoff time.
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The less-heralded additions the Rockets made this summer came in the form of very limited offensive players. Tucker and Mbah a Moute need an elite guard to create quality looks for them, and they join the likes of Ariza and Anderson that require the same.
Therefore, it is important that both Paul and Harden stay healthy and that their minutes are staggered effectively in order to maximize the team’s offensive potential. Having one of Harden or Paul on the floor at all times will allow Houston’s offense to never truly dip in a game. Both players have shown that they can run elite offenses with the right pieces around them.
Adding Paul’s brilliant passing and playmaking alongside Harden and countless shooters should allow Houston to improve on their 111.8 offensive rating they posted last season. Paul’s ability to hit mid-range shots will also diversify Houston’s offense more and put more pressure on opposing defenses, which would have been very useful in that second round series against the San Antonio Spurs.
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In the end, the Rockets need a diverse offense for the playoffs in order to truly succeed. If they achieve that along with the other keys/goals on this list, they will be primed for sustained playoff success this season.