Inside The Rockets

JJ Redick Sees 'Dysfunction' in Rockets Rebuild

The Houston Rockets have enjoyed top-three picks in the 2021 and 2022 NBA Draft, but at what cost? Former NBA star JJ Redick broke down the problems in Houston on his 'Old Man and the Three' podcast.

Matthew Legros

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The Houston Rockets are the worst team in the NBA Western Conference with an 18-54 record. The Rockets are on pace to finish last in the West for the third consecutive season. The lack of discernible progress made with their young talent in the win column has garnered criticism.

Former NBA player JJ Redick upbraided the Rockets organization and coaching staff for lack of structure. He spared not Houston's youthful talent, admonishing their poor attitudes on his "Old Man and the Three" podcast.

Redick's criticisms have credence. The Rockets are No. 29 in the NBA in assists. Their 22.3 assists per game make them one of only four teams failing to average 23 or more per contest. While Kevin Porter Jr. averages 5.8 assists on the year, Houston is bereft of a single pass first player that can set the offense and promote healthy ball movement.

While Redick did not specify defensive shortcomings, the Rockets ranking No. 29 in defensive rating (118.2) only adds to a deleterious team spirit that he sees permeating body language and continuity on the offensive end.

However, the former 15-year NBA veteran may have glossed over some statistics that point to qualitative promise for the Rockets. Telltale signs of tenacity and effort are found in how well a team collects offensive rebounds and finishes second-chance opportunities.

Houston leads the league, averaging 13.2 offensive rebounds per game and score an NBA-best 17.0 second-chance points per night. However, the Rockets are just as good at preventing easy opportunities on the other end, as they rank last allowing 21.0 points off turnovers to opponents.

Redick's assertion on potential rifts between players has not been substantiated with any reports in the media, though having played at a high level for two decades, he'd likely know how to spot little things that other eyes are blind to.

No matter, Redick's takes hold merit and Houston must correct all self-inflicted impediments to their productivity in order to win more games next season.

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Matthew Legros
MATTHEW LEGROS

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