Clutchfans, set me straight here. I was discussing the Parsons deal for the Mavericks...and how the Rockets essentially got Ariza, Terry, Brewer, and Smith for the price of Parsons. A Mavericks fan chimes in and tells me that Brewer is a negative for the Rockets. I respond that Brewer has been the spark plug for the Rockets this season and a big part of why the Rockets are where they are. His response, "'huge spark plug" typical buzz words from someone who doesn't understand statistics'". He then points to some efficiency stats and 3pt percentages. I tell him that he should watch the games before talking. So, answer this. Has Brewer had a positive impact on the Rockets or a negative impact? If positive, why? If negative, why? Please answer if you have watched the majority of the games and understand what Brewer brings to the table despite his "poor stats". Thanks in advance...will link this thread for the Mavs fan to take a look.
His half court offense is fairly pedestrian. But he is an absolute BEAST in generating turnovers and finishing on the fast break. That Mavs fan is an idiot.
52% ts and solid defense out of a bench player is quality production. While occasionally there are Manus and Hardens, 6th moy is usually about 55% and no defense.
#1 in fast break FG% Top 10-15 in steals Like Smith, Brewer a guy that needs to be used correctly to be effective. In the right role, he shines.
His biggest asset is in transition. He is fantastic at playing the passing lanes which is how our attacking defense is molded. He's nicknamed greyhound for his quickness to get down court and finish at the rim. He provides much needed energy and definitely is our spark of the bench. He's the type of player that fails the basic stat tests. Even some advanced ones. You can only tell his true value by watching him play and some very advanced stats. He's a great fit for this team who loves to attack passing lanes, push tempo in transition, and attack the basket. He's a great fit not a perfect fit but only because he lacks shooting efficiency. If he was average our above average he would be a perfect fit and likely worth almost max money. Edit: What finsraider alluded to.
Problems is, he's actually serious. He admits Brewer was good in game 1, but declares Brewer as a negative for the Rockets. In other words, we would have been better off without him.
Regardless of his stats, Brewer is best on the defensive end and is a "greyhound" in transition. He's excellent at finishing at the rim and brings a lot of energy off the bench. He just brings qualities that go beyond statistics.
Never looked into net efficiency rating, but Brewer's PER is 14, which is more than what you can ask for a bench player. And you have to be an idiot to think that these stats actually paint the picture for how important a player is for a team. Look at Kyle Korver and his 14.6 PER or Boris Diaw and his PER of 12. Obviously no relation to true effect on game.
