Terrence Jones key to Houston Rockets’ success
After a disappointing and frustrating rookie year, Houston Rockets’ forward Terrence Jones showed great improvement last season. Now, after losing a lot of their depth and a starter in forward Chandler Parsons, Jones will have to show even more growth in the 2014-2015 season.
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John Zitzler of Basketball believes Jones could be a key piece for the Rockets next season.
"When you think about the Rockets’ frontcourt, the first name that comes to mind is obviously Dwight Howard. While Howard might be the star of the team’s frontcourt, he is getting some great support from soon-to-be third-year player Terrence Jones. After playing in only 19 games as a rookie, Jones saw his role increase dramatically in his second season, starting in 71 games alongside Howard. Jones thrived in his new role and became a steady contributor on a nightly basis. He provides a nice contrast to what Howard does, as Jones is quick enough to take his man off the dribble and has the ability to knock down short-to-medium range shots. Jones had a great second season and quickly rewarded the Rockets’ confidence in him, thriving in his new role. He finished the year with the third-highest PER on the team (19.1) behind only Howard and James Harden. Still growing as a player, Jones has the chance to be even better this upcoming season and may not be underrated much longer."
Although Jones may not be the stretch-four most believe the Rockets should put next to Howard, he has a very promising future and will obviously have to play a big role if the Rockets want to get beyond the first round of the postseason.
Jones averaged 5.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.0 blocks and 0.8 assists in 14.5 minutes per game while shooting 45.7% from the field, 26.3% from beyond the arc and 76.5% from the free throw line in his rookie season. Last season, he put up 12.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.3 blocks and 1.1 assists in 27.3 minutes per game on 54.2% shooting from the field, 30.7% shooting from beyond the arc and 60.5% shooting from the charity stripe. After appearing in just 19 games during the 2012-2013 season (0 starts), he played in 76 games last year (71 starts).
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