[Grades] Grades, Kings vs. Rockets 10-18-17

#62
When watching the game I noticed (of course) that the Rockets got a lot of free throws, and that we didn't. But looking at the box score later, I was surprised to find that the total number of fouls committed by the two teams was not hugely different, and instead what was more salient was the average number of free throws the Rockets got per foul the Kings committed, and vice versa. So I calculated those numbers and compared it to a league average over the last several years. The Rockets were awarded almost 1.5 free throws per foul on average (well above the league average) and we were awarded fewer than 0.7 free throws per foul on average (well below the league average). The willingness for the officials to give the Rockets free throws was a major factor in the game since we actually outshot them otherwise.
So much for the much anticipated "Harden Rule"
 
#63
Say what you want about Pat Beverly but the guy when he's not injuring people is great for the game of basketball with his attitude/toughness it adds another level of intensity/excitement to a game , there's not enough guys like Pat would have him on my team anyday.
Hill for Beverly swap?

Would love watching fox and beverly antagonize opponents. And Beverlys attitude would do wonders if it rubbed off on the young guys.
 
#64
The Kings played hard. They have cleaned up a lot of things that gave them problems in pre-season. I wish they were a better rebounding team, but stayed with the Rockets. As a team the Kings' seem to have a penchant for giving up layups. Maybe that is to be expected against Houston because they spread the floor so much and keep the middle open. Very encouraging to see Willie get some blocks.

It is easy be optimistic going forward about the Kings' guard play. The wings are competent. It would appear that the key to getting to 30 wins or beyond will be the play of the big men. Willie and Skal can both benefit by playing with some more intensity and focus on rebounding and defense. Willie woke up but stills seems sleepy at times. Skal has skills but seems too passive for the NBA. It is tough to change their habits and outlook but Coash J is the man for the job. The Kings' are pretty good at small ball, but I wonder about playing against dominant big men. Fortunately for them, there are not that many left in the League. This is a fun team to watch and it is easy to be a fan again.