Space City Scoop
Fansided

Luc Mbah a Moute has been key since returning from injury

By Michael Knight

HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 18: Jimmy Butler #23 of the Minnesota Timberwolves drives to the basket defended by Luc Mbah a Moute #12 of the Houston Rockets in the second half at Toyota Center on January 18, 2018 in Houston, Texas. 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 Tim Warner/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 18: Jimmy Butler #23 of the Minnesota Timberwolves drives to the basket defended by Luc Mbah a Moute #12 of the Houston Rockets in the second half at Toyota Center on January 18, 2018 in Houston, Texas. 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 Tim Warner/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Since his return from injury, one Rockets forward has had a huge impact on the team.

Luc Mbah a Moute is one of the most important members of the Houston Rockets. Like we’ve said a million times before, he was one of the most underrated signings of the offseason after the Rockets got him for the veteran’s minimum.

His role off the bench (or starting, occasionally) has been significant. He is one of the best defenders in the league and he shows it on a nightly basis.

So far this season, he is also shooting a career-high 39.2% from 3 on twice as many attempts as last year. He has shown the ability to stretch the floor when the Rockets need him to do so.

It has been three games since Mbah a Moute returned from a shoulder injury that sidelined him for nearly a month. He was a bit rusty during the first game, but the last two he’s been spectacular.

Shooting since Luc Mbah a Moute’s return

In the three games that Luc has played, he’s shot 6 for 12 or 50% from deep. That also includes his first rusty game where he shot just 0 for 2. He hits the shots when the Rockets need him to and that will be key coming down the stretch of the season.

His ability to drive and finish has also helped since his return. He is shooting 50% from deep, yes, but overall he is also shooting 52.4% overall. He can lead the fast break if needed, too:

https://twitter.com/HoustonRockets/status/954183851668058112

Defense since Luc Mbah a Moute’s return

During the last three games, the Rockets are holding opponents to 106.3 points per game. A big part of that is Luc’s defense, whether he is starting or coming off the bench.

In the 15 games Luc missed, the Rockets allowed 112.5 points per game to opponents. Of course, that is not all because of Mbah a Moute, but he definitely played a role in that stat. Luc’s defensive versatility was more than missed during his absence and it is great to have him back in the rotation.

He will return to the bench for tonight’s matchup against the Heat with Trevor Ariza returning from suspension. Let’s hope he can keep up his defense and shooting!

Be sure to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook!

Next: Can the Rockets cool off the Heat?

Home/Rockets News