Mike Greenberg: "Rockets/Warriors is going to be a disappointment"

This is the best post I’ve read in a long time. Excellent and thank you.

 

What is it about that network that requires their talking heads to be such twerps.

 

Okay - below are stats for GS and Houston for all 10 games for the playoffs:

Team: GS HOU
PPG: 110.3 / 109.5
PA: 101.6 / 100.1
FG%: 50.3 / 46.0
RPG: 43.5 / 43.5
APG: 29.3 / 21.5
BPG: 7.5 / 4.8
SPG: 8.0 / 8.5

I find a lot of this fascinating;

1. Amazing given that GS has a faster pace AND 4.3% better shooting percentage that the Rockets score only 0.8 points less per game. 4.3% over 100 shots = 8.6 more points! The Rockets make up 7.8 points per game on average using 3 pointers and Free Throws, even though they take fewer shots per game (still looking for the stats on average shots per game - but I'm assuming the Rockets shoot 5+ less). That means that all other things being equal, the Rockets efficiency of play on offense is worth around 8 points a game. That is AMAZING.

2. I think it's hypocritical for the Mediots on TV to argue that GS has "turned it on" in the playoffs and achieved a whole level of play that Houston is not capable of achieving. The Rockets are now playing against the same level of competition as GS in the playoffs (I would argue Utah > N.O. and Min = Gimpy Spurs) and over 10 games, they have the same record (8 - 2) and a superior point differential (+9.4 to +8.7).

3. The Rockets are holding opponents in the playoffs to 100.1 points per game. Underrated defense indeed.

4. If you needed proof that Assists are overrated, see how 7.8 more Assists per game result in a negligible difference in points scored (+0.8)?

5. Shocking the Rockets have the same number of rebounds as the Dubs, particularly given the slower pace of play.