The Houston Rockets are defying expectations with a stellar start to the season, but there's a twist in their strategy that has everyone talking. With an 11-4 record, they boast the NBA's top offense, but it's not the 'Moreyball' era's signature 3-pointers that are fueling their success.
The Rockets are taking some of the worst shots in the league, at least by the standards of the Moreyball philosophy. Remember when James Harden would exclusively shoot 3s or at the rim, avoiding the mid-range like the plague? Well, these Rockets are doing the opposite. They're taking a whopping 42% of their shots in the zone between the charge circle and the 3-point line, the highest rate in the league. And yet, they're still the top offense.
But here's where it gets controversial: the Rockets are last in 3-point frequency, with only a third of their shots coming from deep. They're paying the price for those long 2s, ranking 26th in 2-point shooting percentage. So, how are they dominating? It's all about the 'new math.'
Houston's strategy is to generate significantly more shot attempts than their opponents, making up for lower efficiency. They may struggle to create good looks on the first try, but their offensive board work gives them a second chance. Despite ranking only 13th in half-court offense plays, their relentless pursuit of offensive rebounds results in more overall plays, allowing them to dominate offensively.
This approach marks a significant shift from recent years, where shooting percentages were the primary determinant of victory. Now, the Rockets are showcasing that possession is king. And they're not alone in this trend.
The New York Knicks, for instance, are emulating the Rockets' success during Mitchell Robinson's minutes, combining it with a substantial turnover advantage. Robinson's phenomenal offensive rebound rate of 29.3% is a game-changer for New York. And in the larger context of the league, the possession battle is becoming a critical factor in success.
The Oklahoma City Thunder's championship run last year is a prime example. They won despite being outshot in the finals, thanks to a staggering turnover advantage. Now, teams are embracing high-risk possession strategies, whether it's crashing the glass or forcing turnovers.
The Rockets have taken this to the extreme, boasting a massive 38.5% offensive rebound rate after an offseason of adding size to their frontcourt. This unconventional approach could set a new trend in the NBA, where imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
As the NBA Cup quarterfinals approach, the Rockets' strategy is sure to spark debate. Will their possession-focused approach continue to pay off? And what does this mean for the future of the game? The court is buzzing with anticipation, and the comments section awaits your thoughts.
