Houston Rockets: Three reasons team should start Gary Clark now

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OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – NOVEMBER 8: Carmelo Anthony #7 of the Houston Rockets and Gary Clark #6 of the Houston Rockets block Steven Adams #12 of the Oklahoma City Thunder from shooting two points during the first half of a NBA game at the Chesapeake Energy Arena on November 8, 2018 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by J Pat Carter/Getty Images) /

Reason #2: Evaluating the Clark effect

Clark has an immense effect on the active lineup once it’s his turn to contribute. I’d liken it to the notion of a failing bank that received a quick infusion of cash to keep itself going. It’s quite similar because you know that Clark is going to be money whenever his number is called.

Some of the Houston Rockets highest player impact estimate lineups have included Clark. In fact, three of the top five lineups that have made the most impact included him. Now mind you, these lineups weren’t used profusely but the one that has been together the longest with the highest estimate (152.0 PIE) is the combination of Chris Paul, Eric Gordon, James Ennis, Isaiah Hartenstein and Clark.

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This lineup has only been used for just three games for a combined total of 10 minutes but the lineups effective field goal percentage is 61.8 while the true shooting percentage is 61.1.

The defensive rebound percentage is a sterling 88.9, a 0.3 turnover ratio while maintaining a healthy 103.3 PACE average over time.

Small sample size? Yes but it goes to show the potential that Clark has to help this team out.

But just think how things would pan out if James Harden were inserted into the lineup along with Clark? I’d like to see that combination more as I could really see an uptick in overall productivity if the switch were made.

What’s another trait that should make him worthy of joining the starting ranks? Let’s dig some more.

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