Red Nation Roundup: Week of October 10th, 2016

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Finally! Another season of Rockets basketball is only a little over a week away, and Red Nation Hoops is excited to bring you the latest in Rockets news. As you all may have noticed, the new coach, Mike D'Antoni, has gotten straight into the process of assigning player roles and establishing a base for the Rockets offensive system. He has proclaimed superstar James Harden to be the "Points Guard", meaning that the entire offense will revolve around his ability to create for everyone, and himself, on the court.

Some people, if not most people, believe that this Rockets team will be the second coming of the "Seven Seconds or Less" Phoenix Suns because of D'Antoni's fast paced, free flowing offensive philosophy that was extremely effective from 2004 to 2007. However, there is one pretty big, complex issue that needs to be addressed and fixed: defense.

With the acquisitions of Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon, offensive firepower was surely added, but they aren't here for their defensive prowess whatsoever. A lot of weight will fall on the shoulders of Trevor Ariza, Patrick Beverley, and Clint Capela on the defensive end. So with all that being said, here are some great articles that illustrate new player roles and what our team has the potential to be under the helm of Coach Mike D'Antoni.

Comparing the Rockets to the Seven Seconds or Less Suns | SB Nation's "The Dream Shake" 

This first article offers a fantastic comparison between the personnel of Mike D'Antoni's "Seven Seconds or Less Suns" and the personnel of the 2016-17 Rockets. It draws very logical and in-depth parallels between several pairs of players.

James Harden Is the Changing Face of the Point Guard Position | The Ringer

A great explanation as to how James Harden can redefine the point guard position for this D'Antoni led Houston Rockets team, and why this move to point guard is the right move according to new, modern ways of the NBA.

Mike D'Antoni known for offense, but Rockets making D a priority | ESPN

We all know this season's Rockets will be an offensively-oriented team. However, Coach D'Antoni and Assistant Coach Jeff Bzdelik look to improve the defensive consistency and intensity of the team. And we all know that this team is in need of some defense.

4 reasons to get hyped for the NBA season | SB Nation's "The Dream Shake"

Here are some things to look forward to with the Rockets this season. Check it out! It'll get you hyped up and ready to watch.

After last year's disaster, much at stake for Rockets' Harden | Sporting News

This article addresses the many issues the Rockets, especially James Harden, endured last year, and how they can improve. Leadership. Toughness. Unity.

2016-17 Season Preview: Houston Rockets | NBA.com

Here's a short read that summarizes roster moves from the off-season, things to look out for, and key players within the Rockets rotation.