Didn't see this posted. I think we all saw this but some interesting stats: http://www.cbssports.com/nba/eye-on-basketball/24919885/rockets-trevor-ariza-gamble-paying-off
No wonder McHale has been running him into the ground. Hopefully Brewer can make dent in those minutes without a drop in the results.
AND, as we continue stocking this team, Ariza will be able to settle into his role .. not being asked to do too much...By year's end, I expect his shooting/efficiency #'s to be peaking. He won't HAVE to play iron man minutes (most of the time)...Trevor should be fresh.
As we all know Ariza started out the season shooting amazingly, however since the 8th game of the season (11/12) he's shot over 40% FG just TWO times & over 33% 3PT only THREE times. And also note that during this stretch he's only attempted less than 6 three pointers just TWO times. As solid as his defense has been, we can't continue to afford this for such a high volume shot attempt player. Especially if this is continuing past all-star break, it can really hurt us in the playoffs.
His defensive value is massive. Also he'll get out of this slump, he won't be Steve Kerr, but he's not gonna continue to shoot 28% like he has since his hot start
I'd say +18 overall (+12 defense + 6 offense) is pretty ridiculous. I imagine best in league? I will take a wild guess and say he continues to start no matter how he is shooting. He will get better with his shot anyways. His +/- numbers were more like +7 overall last year for Wizards, so, this is massive improvement. I"m sure it will taper down, but he's also playing with greater talent and fits like a glove on this team. His numbers are probably boosted by James Harden's defensive improvements, as well, which he should get some credit for. Though Harden gets the lion share of credit for his hustle this year. He has really impressed me with his will to win this year.
