Houston Rockets Video Diary – Media Day: Eric Gordon

In his first Media Day with the Houston Rockets Eric Gordon appeared relaxed and ready to grasp his new opportunity.

Houston Rockets Media Day offered Eric Gordon the opportunity to speak about joining the team and his expectations.

Nov 13, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New Orleans Pelicans guard Eric Gordon (10) dribbles the ball against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. Toronto defeated New Orleans 100-81. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

On Harden:

Eric Gordon has known Harden since high school, but spent the past two months with him. Literally, it sounds like the two were in the gym together daily and have been pushing each other to grow their games.

On this close relationship, Gordon says in his pro career he has never experienced anything like that.

Says Harden has a different energy this season. He expects Harden to showcase his burgeoning leadership in numerous ways.

Why the Rockets?

• Cites the shooters on the team, but says he is anxious to return to utilizing his play making skill set that earmarked the start of his career.
• Says he is versatile enough to be a spot up shooter or play maker and welcomes that challenge.
• Notes Harden’s play making ability and says with so many shooters surrounding Harden his (Harden) game could take a huge step forward.  Feels Harden could easily average over 10 assists per game.
• Gordon says the only one who can stop the Rockets is themselves.

On D’Antoni:

excited to play for him and feels the retooled roster is perfectly suited for the coaches up tempo offense.

On Gordon’s Health:

Eric pointed to the majority of his injuries incurring in New Orleans and said some were freak incidents. He also noted he arrives at camp 100 percent healthy. Full disclosure: over the years I’ve personally wondered if Gordon was over hyped. In his sophomore season pundits had him ranked well above the man who had to beat him in a dunk off: DeMar DeRozan.

Whereas DeRozan continually worked to improve his game, Gordon was mired by injury riddled seasons and never seemed to take the next logical step up the ladder. That said, Gordon looks (physically) to be in the best shape of his career. And, there was just something about his demeanor at the podium, a calm cool, confidence that has me readjusting my thought process.

Maybe, just maybe these guys really do mean business!

On Anderson’s Changing Role:

Eric Gordon and Ryan Anderson have played together for 5 years in New Orleans and have built a strong bond. This was clearly evident when Gordon followed Anderson’s lead of signing with the Rockets in free agency.

Asked how Anderson will adjust to a starting role, Gordon said the stretch four power forward would adapt easily. Notably Anderson would start for most teams, but when Anthony Davis is your starting forward it doesn’t leave much room.

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Next: Rockets Yearbook Class of 2016-17- Photos and Expectations

SCS video diary series will offer insight from Media Day, Training Camp as well as bring you tidbits to allow you to become more familiar with new players.