NBA: 10 takeaways from the first quarter of the 2017-18 season

By Evan Dyal | Nov 23, 2017

BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 24: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics reacts in front of Willy Hernangomez #14 of the New York Knicks after hitting a three point shot during the fourth quarter at TD Garden on October 24, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeat the Knicks 110-89. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

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PHOENIX, AZ – NOVEMBER 16: Head coach Mike D’Antoni of the Houston Rockets reacts during the first half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on November 16, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Rockets defeated the Suns 142-116. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Houston can defend

Last year, the Rockets ran people off the floor with a sizzling offense and shooting a million 3’s per game. Well, they still take a ton of 3’s; they lead the league in 44 attempts per game, which is 10 more than the next team.

The difference is their defense. Last year they were average at best; this year they are eight in defensive efficiency. Clint Capela is having a career year on offense. Defensively, he is protecting the rim and helping the Rockets be 2nd in defensive rebounding. Capela is 7th at defensive RPM; he is that valuable.

It’s the new additions that are paying off. Luc Richard Mbah Moute and P.J. Tucker have been tremendous. They can guard multiple positions and give the Rockets an element of toughness they did not have last year. Mbah Moute, Tucker along with Trevor Ariza, all have positive defensive RPM’s. Nene has been anchoring the center unit on that end.

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