3 reasons why small ball has improved the Houston Rockets so far this season

#1 Russell Westbrook has been at his ferocious best

Westbrook is averaging 27.2 points, 7.9 rebounds and 7.2 assists per game with the Rockets this season

With the transition to small-ball, it means Russell Westbrook has the license to attack the rim without hesitation in Houston. He can now create shots for himself, targeting any and all defenders that come his way.

Westbrook's drive is his most powerful tool and naturally, we have seen him taking more drives to the rim lately. The number of drives per game has increased since Capela's departure, while his other offensive numbers have improved too.

He leads the league with 20 drives a game, as well as passes made per game - hence remaining unselfish, creating opportunities for fellow teammates too. Despite struggling to find a rhythm from three-point range (24.6%), he's free to play his natural game, evidenced by stats: 27.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.6 steals per game in 45 contests.

He has been shooting exceptionally well from the field (career-high 46.6%) and the Rockets will hope this consistency can remain into the postseason.