Mike D'Antoni says upgrading defense is first step for Rockets

Mike D’Antoni said that the Rockets will be a better team next season. And the key will be to improve the defense.

Per NBA.com, “The offense starts off, we just had one layer in, and it was pretty good, but we can add to that. Defensively is where we are going to make our most strides and, again, we are talking about being a top 10 (defense). That is the key.

“I guarantee we will get better.”

D’Antoni said upgrading the defense is the “first step.” 

“You are selling trust,” D’Antoni said. “We developed a bond between the players and the coaching staff. (Assistant coach) Jeff Bzdelik has done an incredible job. In case you hadn’t noticed, we aren’t a very defensive-minded team, but Jeff is creating habits and that takes a while. That’s our next big step, and we will get better at that next year.”