After the interview, Tang Tian turned to discuss the tactical plans for the upcoming game with Stevens.
The Rockets excelled at three-pointers, and the Pelicans' defensive strategy over the past two games had been a 3-2 zone, with their overall defensive focus tilted toward the perimeter.
That approach had been highly effective. The Rockets' Three-Point Percentage in both games had been only around 33%, noticeably lower than in the Regular Season.
But Harden was not someone who could only shoot threes. His drives and ability at Drawing Fouls were both strong, and how the Pelicans would collapse inward after extending their defense was a problem.
To put it in straightforward numbers, the Rockets had averaged 47.8 points in the paint over the past two games.
Stevens had not found a great solution to that, and it was also an important reason why the scores had remained so close.
"The 3-2 zone strategy is right, but I think we can appropriately leave Westbrook's area open and have the defenders retreat inside earlier."
Tang Tian offered Stevens his small suggestion.
Westbrook's biggest weakness was his inconsistent shooting, especially from three. He was on the same level as the early-career Rondo and Wade.
"And if the player collapsing inward does that early, he can also get over to double-team Harden sooner when Harden makes a Holding the Ball Breakthrough."
After Tang Tian finished speaking, Stevens' brow immediately relaxed.
"I think you'd be even better than me as a coach."
Stevens sighed with emotion.
It was not simply because of this one suggestion, but a feeling he had developed over all the years they had known each other.
"You're already outstanding. I think you're even better than Popovich."
Tang Tian returned the commercial flattery.
In truth, Popovich's in-game adjustments really were not as good