Former Bulls Coach Reveals How Stephen Silas will Mentor Rockets’ James Harden and Russell Westbrook

Many have doubts whether the Houston Rockets made the right choice with their new head coach. After the Rockets failed to withstand another playoff run, their former coach Mike D’ Antoni left the franchise. With two dominant players like James Harden and Russell Westbrook, bringing in any new coach would have been very tough.

The Rockets initially had eyes on Tyronn Lue and Doc Rivers for the coaching gig. Both have tremendous experience but got the head coach job elsewhere. Lue became the Clippers’ coach and Doc signed with the Philadelphia 76ers. Thus, when Stephen Silas signed with the Rockets, it was an enormous surprise for everyone.

This is because Silas, who has 20 years of experience as an assistant coach, was making his debut as a head coach. So, a question naturally arose- is he equipped to lead players like Harden and Westbrook?

Balancing two of Houston Rockets’ superstars

On ‘Basketball News’, former NBA player and former head coach of the Chicago Bulls, Vincent Del Negro, joined Alex Kennedy. Vinny gives his viewpoint on the hot topic of discussion surrounding Silas’ first stint with the Rockets.

Alex asked, “What do you think about Silas and his Rockets job?”. Vinny said, “Well see, like you said, it’s going to depend on, you know. Are they going to go out and get some frontcourt players in free agency? Are they going to stay with the small ball?”

Talking about the kind of players Harden and Westbrook are, he stated, “When you have James Harden, he needs to play a certain style. You know, he can score as well as anybody in the league, we know that. And Russell Westbrook needs to play an open style as well with his ability and his great athleticism to get to the rim and create havoc.”

“So the style for them is going to be very important. But how they structure their roster around their two superstars like that will be key,” explained Vinny. “And we’ll have to wait and see if they’re going to try to slow the tempo down just a little bit. Or if they’re going to speak to him or will they play the same way?”

Vinny concluded that Silas needs to figure out a way that benefits Russell and Harden. If he manages to do that, then this could lead the Rockets to a path that increases their chances at the title. Do you think Stephen Silas can pull that off?