Houston Rockets excel in rebounding: Carmelo Anthony praises Steven Adams’ impact
The Houston Rockets have made their presence felt on the boards this season, showcasing a tenacity and depth that few teams can match. With a roster brimming with size, they seamlessly transition between jumbo and double-big lineups, creating mismatches that overwhelm opponents.
Dynamic Rebounding Lineup
At the forefront of this rebounding renaissance is Amen Thompson, a 6-foot-7 point guard who is defying conventional expectations. Ranking 19th in the league with an average of 2.7 offensive rebounds per game, Thompson’s athleticism sets him apart. Although his role as a traditional point guard is debatable, his ability to attack the glass is undeniable.
The Rockets’ rebounding prowess doesn’t hinge solely on Thompson, though. Steven Adams, a titan on the boards, leads the league with an impressive 4.5 offensive rebounds per game, grabbing one out of every four available. His sheer strength and positioning make it a daunting task for opponents to box him out. When teams attempt to counter his rebounding with extra bodies, it opens up opportunities for his teammates, allowing players like Thompson and Alperen Sengun—who ranks 14th with three offensive rebounds per game—to capitalize.
League Leaders in Rebounding
As a unit, the Rockets are dominating the rebounding statistics, leading the league in total rebounds, offensive rebounds, and offensive rebound percentage. This commanding presence on the glass is not merely a product of chance; it is a calculated strategy that emphasizes hustle and teamwork.
Former Rockets star and recent Hall of Fame inductee Carmelo Anthony provided insights into the team’s rebounding success during NBA on NBC and Peacock’s pregame coverage leading up to the Rockets-Nuggets matchup.
Carmelo’s Insights on Rebounding Strategy
“It’s not an accident when it comes to their elite rebounding,” Anthony stated. “You’re talking about positioning, and guys who attack the glass at all positions. Sengun’s basketball IQ and positioning on the glass are crucial. Then you have Steven Adams, one of the greatest offensive rebounders this game has ever seen, doing it night in and night out.”
Anthony further highlighted the ripple effect of their rebounding success. “Those kick-out threes are deadly when Adams and those guys find the open man,” he added. “The whole Houston team is more efficient, understanding that offensive rebounding is a strength. With Adams, Sengun, Okogie in the corner, and Jabari attacking the glass, they’re pursuing offensive rebounds by committee.”
Houston’s rebounding dominance is also reflected in their ability to generate second-chance points, where they lead the league. This relentless pursuit on the offensive glass significantly contributes to their impressive third-ranked offense, underscoring the importance of rebounding in their overall strategy.
As the Rockets continue to assert their will on the boards, it is clear that their collective effort and individual skill set are shaping them into a formidable contender this season.
