3 keys to the Rockets’ comeback against the Blazers

Key #2: Houston Rockets coach Stephen Silas’ adjustments

After missing 14-of-16 threes in the first quarter as a team, the Rockets only attempted five in the second quarter, a stark contrast from the Mike D’Antoni and Moreyball Rockets that lived and died by the three. That strategy led to a fair share of amazing moments but also a large amount of frustrating performances.

Coach Silas and his coaching staff preach effort and intensity and have been making adjustments to the team’s game plan based on the game flow. WOW combined to shoot 11-of-15 from the field in the second quarter, using speed, athleticism, and a soft touch to attack the Blazers interior.

By changing up the blueprint, the Rockets not only got better shots, but were also able to take advantage of a Blazers team that started coasting.

Here is Stephen Silas laughing at @BigSargeSportz despite being asked not to: pic.twitter.com/yRoD3xChat

— Adam Spolane (@AdamSpolane) January 29, 2021

After getting blitzed by Logo Lillard in the first quarter, Silas also had the Rockets start to double Lillard almost every time he touched the ball. This made the Blazers uncomfortable and gave the Rockets the opening they needed to get back into the game.

Once the comeback began, the confidence and belief in the entire team seemed to elevate and it was clear the entire team had bought in to the new era of Silas and Stoneball.

Next: Key #1