Sleeping Monster: Rockets' Center Capela Ineffective Lately

Clint Capela's absence once brought a problem to the Houston Rockets. But his presence wasn't the solution though.

Without Capela, Rockets totally lost control of their rebounds in their games that resulted in a loss. Not having their main center made their team weak and scrawny. What's even worst is that it was coupled with Harden's worst shooting nights. The past few games turned out to be an absolute apocalypse of Rocket's grip on the top spot.

Warriors have gained the crown in the west and they lost 5 straight. Nothing could ever get even worst than what Houston has been in.

Luckily, they have won their recent match against Lakers in a nail-biting double overtime ball game. But one thing's still the problem.

Is Clint Capela Sleeping?

It may not have extended two times if Rockets were able to control the shaded area. Lakers got the advantage on rebounds 69 - 58 and completely dominated production underneath the rim.

Lakers scored a massive 82 points from the paint while Rockets only have a puny 58 point production. What's even shocking is that Capela only scored 7 points with his long 32 minutes of play. He also barely touched the ball, making only 3 of the 8 attempts.

We thought that his absence made Rockets an underdog in terms of interior basketball, but if that's so, why did his presence didn't make any significant difference but still they end up losing so badly inside the shaded area?

Is Capela ineffective or his Rockets are running the game plan without him?

It may be both. Capela's presence really is ineffective not just with the points but with rebounds. On the other hand, Rockets also do not involve him much in the offense. Most of Rockets' points are coming from Chris Paul and James Harden.

Conclusion

He failed to play in some of their games so it might be a good idea to push him to make up for his absence. Make him touch the leather frequently and move Rockets' offense from the small gunners to the huge inside monster.