2. Rockets need a wing defender

The Rockets defensive numbers this season are subpar. They’re allowing opponents an average of 114.6 points per game. Also noteworthy, the Rockets allow 51.3 points in the paint per game. Opponents are shooting an effective field goal percentage of 52.6 this season.

Houston ranks 23rd in team defense. The biggest knock on James Harden and Russell Westbrook is they don’t play defense. The numbers clearly show that this is a problem. A quick fix would be acquiring a wing defender capable of taking the load off their superstars.

This could be the plan as the Rockets get closer to the trade deadline. Houston is built for small ball. Having a center in the paint hinders floor spacing and complicates the flow of offense with Harden and Westbrook.