Why The Houston Rockets Will Make the NBA Finals

NBA: 5 Reasons Why The Houston Rockets Will Make the 2015 NBA Finals

Dec 17, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) celebrates with guard Patrick Beverley (2) and forward Trevor Ariza (1) during the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. The Rockets won 115-111 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 13, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Ty Lawson (3) during the game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Houston, We Finally Play Defense

As crazy as it might sound, the Houston Rockets are one of the best defensive teams in the NBA. The Rockets rank within the top five in the NBA when it comes to points allowed (second), opponents field goal percentage (fourth), opponents three-point percentage (third), and are sixth when it comes to forcing turnovers.

They are doing this with the use of Trevor Ariza who normally guards the oppositions best player, and Dwight Howard who takes out the opponent’s best post player. Ariza’s impact to the Rockets has been masterful and he ranks as the fifth best player when it comes to defensive win shares.

Also the impact of point guard Patrick Beverley shouldn’t get taken lightly. Beverley, also known as Mr. 94 feet, is an absolute hound when it comes to guarding the point guard position. Beverley has quick feet, great lateral movement and stays in front of point guards causing them to take terrible shots and make bad decisions.

Want to hear something even more crazy?

Guess who’s first in the NBA when it comes to defensive win shares? James Harden.

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