The trade of Clint Capela signaled the start of a new chapter for the Rockets. After years of defining their identity, they decided to go all-in on their small-ball strategy.
Surely, James Harden, Russell Westbrook and a team full of perimeter shooters will be enough to make them a significant threat in the playoffs.
Interestingly, their strategy might also (unintentionally) include a mini-reunion of ex-Thunder players. After the signing of Jeff Green yesterday, Houston now has four players who have once played for OKC, including Russell Westbrook, James Harden, and Thabo Sefolosha.
Veteran forward Jeff Green has agreed to sign with the Rockets, league sources tell ESPN. Green averaged 7.8 points and 2.7 rebounds in 30 games with the Jazz this season.
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) February 17, 2020
As former teammates, Russ and Harden have had a head start in building their chemistry. This season, they seem to be pairing up pretty well, combining for an average of 62 points per game.
As for Green, he joins DeMarre Carrol as new additions to Houston, and the hope is that they can add some size and depth to the rather small frontcourt rotation. As 3-and-D players, both should be able to help Houston capitalize on their schemes on both ends of the floor.
Maybe next, they can figure out some way to sign Kevin Durant?