Good to hear that Harden has been playing D for Team USA. Hope it continues into the NBA season. Harden committing himself to become at least an average defender is the one thing that could change the Rockets' fate the most in the upcoming season and beyond.
Looking good. I cursed Harden when Parsons left... It's a just the matter of if Harden is going to defer to Ariza on the defensive side like he did Parsons. How will Ariza respond? Parsons at least said stuff like "What was that" on a Harden lazy defense play. Will Ariza hold Harden accountable?
You said he was incapable of playing.D. Most of us pointed out it was an effort thing and not a skill thing and that he has played good D before in OKC. Defensive effort can be improved. Defensive skill cannot. You wrote the book on a 24 year old player prematurely who is a gym rat and loves basketball. You were wrong. Don't try to spin it. Just accept it and move on. Please and thank you.
"I spoke to several members of the USAB staff, and behind the scenes they were amazed at how good Harden has become as an overall player since his last tour with Team USA two years ago. The fact that he came in and was focused on being a lockdown defender blew them away. When he wants to play defense, Harden is very capable. We already know he is one of the premier offensive players in the game. I love him as a player (I have always loved lefties) for his unorthodox moves in the open court that allow him to get to the rim, and also knowing how to draw fouls. But now I am being told Harden is getting it done on the other end, which has always been the major complaint about his game."
http://www.sheridanhoops.com/2014/08/02/gonzo-leaving-las-vegas-three-things-you-didnt-know-about-team-usa/
Already posted in this thread. You have posted this in two now. Make sure to post it in some more so everyone hears the good news.
Just making sure it was posted and wanted to share with everyone. Wasn't intentional and it was all in good faith. No need to be hostile and sarcastic to a fellow Rocket fan. I've never disrespected anyone in here.
Just making sure it was posted and wanted to share with everyone. Wasn't intentional and it was all in good faith. No need to be hostile and sarcastic to a fellow Rocket fan. I've never disrespected anyone in here.
Lol Parsons is the last dude who should be holding James accountable. He was just as horrible on D as Harden
True, but it helps if Dwight starts to get on him. Not sure why Ariza would be the guy holding him accountable when the Rockets have a 3 time DPOY. Fixed. Honestly, McHale should bench him at the beginning of the regular season. Give him a reality check while the Rockets still get wins with Dwight and co.
Defense at the 1,2,3 & 5 could certainly transform the team where only the 1 & 5 played defense last year
That might be the worst suggestion I've ever heard in my life. I mean, if he becomes a major problem in practices and training camp then maybe you consider cutting his playing time to start the year, but anything more than that would be counterproductive.
Did that happen last year? What was more counterproductive was that playoff series. Regular season matters little in comparison to the playoffs. Also, benching does not mean to DNP-CD him, at least not in the context I have heard and used it. With great power comes great responsibility. I might have gone too extreme, but at least a preseason game if he doesn't play up to par on defense, like he is with Team USA. Doing this would make a statement at an appropriate time, sending him a message to clean up the BS.
