JY86er

Just some thoughts on improvements a few current players could make based on notes I took during the season. Your thoughts?

Dwight Howard
I think Dwight is who he is. He has the Kelvin Kato Syndrome. Ideally I'd settle for his double doubles and his rim defense, but I'd love for Clint Capela to push him for his playing time. Maybe that will consistently motivate him to really start being the champion he says he is. Other goals:

-demand the ball quicker and in motion to the post.
-defensive transition. Sprint back upcourt on defense. Stop the ball.
-free throw coaching. Shoot 60% FT or 60% FG.
-consistent killer instinct late in games (the regular season is not practice. Harden needs help)

Donatas Motiejunas
He has the brightest potential for improvement on the team. His growth next season should be exciting to watch.

-Stamina
-find the two spots on the court where the left handed and right handed hook are most natural. Ask for the ball there.
-develop 15 to 18 ft jump shot on curl catch and shoot. Top of key and baseline.
-defend the post better (just a tiny bit better would be awesome)
-learn to play faster (missing the playoffs hurt this development)
-watch a Kevin Mchale post scoring video

Josh Smith
He won't change and I'd love to see his data set Mr. Morey has from December to May but here are goals for him for next season anyway:

-Improve hand strength to grip the ball moving toward the basket
-free throw coaching (although in warm up I'd see him make bucket after bucket)
-focus in defensive transition
-decrease turnovers by better decision making on passes from the paint
-develop a "go to" post move
-more right hand

Patrick Beverely
Whoever he is with here are goals for next season:

-Offensive facilitation. This team needs a veteran PG. Be one.
-Handle the ball enough to help Harden move without it.
-less turnovers
-watch film and steal at least ONE great thing Chris Paul does.

Trevor Ariza
The Rockets ironman for the season certainly, but still here are my goals for him next season:

-Finishing at the rim with strength
-pocket passes
-decision making when fatigue is setting in

Nick Johnson
-shooting

Clint Capela
-weak side shot blocking
-more screen and roll with Harden

Terrance Jones
His breakout season was cut short by the nerve injury I think. Here are goals for him next season:

-learn how to limit Western Conf PF's (or else)
-screen and roll homework with Harden
-use a consistent shot outside the paint 15ft


About the free throw shooting:

With Harden getting to the FT line so often and putting teams in the penalty early everyone on the team must shoot at least 60% from the line OR 60% from the field. This team liability could be a team strength with just a little work. An opportunity for free points demands attention. Not just the shooting, but the strategy of getting to the foul line and the pressure it puts on the depth of an opponent.