Houston Rockets: 4 takeaways from the win over the Suns

PHOENIX, AZ - NOVEMBER 16: Eric Gordon #10 of the Houston Rockets high fives Chris Paul #3 during the first half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on November 16, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. 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)
PHOENIX, AZ - NOVEMBER 16: Eric Gordon #10 of the Houston Rockets high fives Chris Paul #3 during the first half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on November 16, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. 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) /
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PHOENIX, AZ – NOVEMBER 16: Trevor Ariza #1 of the Houston Rockets handles the ball against the Phoenix Suns on November 16, 2017 at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ – NOVEMBER 16: Trevor Ariza #1 of the Houston Rockets handles the ball against the Phoenix Suns on November 16, 2017 at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Takeaway No. 3 – Another good game from Trevor Ariza

After a slow start to the season, Trevor Ariza has quietly been pretty solid the past few games. Since the rough 1/6 from deep night against Memphis, he has shot 52% from 3 (13/25) and has looked much better. He is currently shooting just 34% from deep, his worst mark since 2012.

Last night, he had only 11 points but was 3/5 from beyond the arc and had a tough finish in the paint. He also has a knack for starting games with a triple (or A-three-za as Bill Worrell calls it). This is a good sign for the Rockets as they need his floor spacing in their offense. He is another weapon for Chris Paul and James Harden to find open for 3.

His defense has also improved since the beginning of the season. He was solid against LeBron James a few games ago and can guard just about anyone on the court. His versatility on that side of the game will be key for the Rockets as they look to continue their hot start to the season.

Next: Takeaway No. 4