Thinking Basketball #296: Rockets, Magic & defensive ceilings
21 snips
Dec 4, 2024 The recent surge of the Houston Rockets and Orlando Magic sets the stage for a deep dive into their defensive strategies. Key players like Tari Eason and Elper are spotlighted for their pivotal roles. The hosts debate whether an all-defense lineup poses a greater threat in today's game. They explore the complexities of rim protection and the evolving roles of perimeter defenders. Lastly, they assess how each team's defensive strengths could influence their playoff prospects—raising questions about their overall viability.
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Rockets Regular Season vs. Playoffs
- The Houston Rockets' impressive win pace is driven by their strong defense, not offense.
- Their regular season success may not translate to playoff success.
Rockets' Defensive Scheme
- The Rockets use Dylan Brooks strategically, often guarding centers then switching to point guards.
- Their defensive scheme involves heavy helping, shrinking the floor, and aggressive ball pressure.
Şengün's Rim Protection
- Alperen Şengün's improved rim protection is partially due to the Rockets' defensive system.
- The team's swarming, helping, and ball pressure create a difficult environment for opponents.