3 reasons why Paul George is a good fit for the Houston Rockets

2. George’s defense is an upgrade at small forward

The Houston Rockets were a tremendous defensive team this past season. They finished the year sixth in defensive rating (103.8), fifth in steals (8.5) and seventh in opponent 3-point percentage (35.1 percent).

Adding Paul George would further strengthen the team’s defense. The three-time All-Defensive forward finished second in steals per game (2.0) last season. George’s height and length allow him to guard forwards like Kevin Durant, but he also has the strength to hang with LeBron James.

George also plays well with other great defenders. Last season, the Thunder had a 94.2 defensive rating when George shared the floor with lockdown defender and starting guard Andre Roberson. The Thunder out scored their opponents by a whopping 14.2 points per 100 possessions when George and Roberson shared the floor. That’s higher than any other Thunder duo that played at least 100 minutes together.

Like George and Roberson, George and P.J. Tucker would make a great defensive duo for the Rockets. With all due respect to Trevor Ariza, Paul George is an upgrade at the small forward position on both ends of the floor.

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