NBA Playoffs: Six X-factors for the Houston Rockets and OKC Thunder

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 04: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets reacts to a call during the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at The Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 04, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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NBA playoffs, Houston Rockets, OKC Thunder (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

P.J. Tucker

Speaking of big bodies deciding this series, P.J. Tucker is the fulcrum of the entire defense for the new styled Rockets. As he and Robert Covington often end up being the biggest player for the Rockets they will be tasked with damage control on the glass when Steven Adams tries to get back on track.

Covington’s focus will often be shifted to the likes of Danilo Gallinari, leaving Tucker to contend with whatever big body may be in front of him. Tucker will be filling the role of the rare 3-and-D center. He will help pull Adams from the middle, opening up driving lanes for all the guards on this team who thrive on cuts and kick-outs.

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Tucker is shooting a respectable 35.8 percent from long range this season, helping further fuel his role. Adams may try to sag off early in the series, daring him to make him pay. Once he does it enough things will start to get even more complicated for the Thunder.

If this gets to the point where it mitigates the team’s greatest weakness and Adams gets played off the floor that is a huge win for Mike D’Antoni. As stated, Adams is a part of one of the best five-man units in the league. Doing anything you can to make that unplayable will go a long way in the Rockets moving on.