Jock landing some blows in limited minutes

• Points per game: 3.9
• Rebounds per game: 3.3
• Assists: 1.0
• FG%: 44.7

Australian Boomers big Jock Landale has played a limited but steady role for the Houston Rockets during the 2024-25 season. As a backup centre, he has contributed through hustle, rebounding, and occasional scoring. His minutes and usage are modest, but his presence in the rotation offers value, particularly in providing depth in the frontcourt.

Below is an evaluation of his season performance.

Strengths

1. Efficient Scoring in Limited Opportunities
   • Field Goal Percentage: 44.7%
   • Landale has shown efficiency in close-range scoring when given opportunities, capitalising on putbacks and high-percentage looks near the rim.
   • Standout Performance: Scored a season-high 13 points on 71.4% shooting against San Antonio on October 27, demonstrating his capability to contribute offensively when needed.
2. Rebounding Presence
   • Average RPG: 3.3 (in just 11.1 minutes per game)
   • Landale’s rebounding numbers are solid given his limited playing time. His effort on the glass, especially on the defensive end, helps the Rockets secure possessions.
3. Hustle and Energy
   • Landale’s smarts make him a valuable rotational piece. He competes hard on both ends, providing a physical presence in the paint and setting solid screens on offense.
4. Occasional Range
   • Three-Point Shooting: 50% (3-for-6)
   • While a low-volume shooter from beyond the arc, Landale has shown that he can knock down open threes when needed, adding an element of versatility to his game.

Areas for Improvement

1. Scoring Consistency
   • Average PPG: 3.9
   • Landale’s scoring output is inconsistent, with several scoreless outings but it's tough coming off the bench.
2. Free-Throw Shooting
   • FT%: 52.6% (10-of-19)
   • Landale’s poor free-throw shooting limits his effectiveness, especially in late-game situations. Improving this aspect of his game would make him a more reliable option.
3. Defensive Impact
   • Blocks and Steals: 0.4 BPG, 0.2 SPG
   • While Landale brings effort, his defensive impact in terms of shot-blocking and generating turnovers is minimal.
4. Turnovers and Fouls
   • Turnovers Per Game: 0.5
   • Fouls Per Game: 1.0
   • Although not extreme, Landale occasionally struggles with turnovers and fouls.

Summary

Jock Landale has been a serviceable backup centre for the Houston Rockets. His rebounding, energy, and occasional scoring add value in his role, but his inconsistent production and inefficiency at the free-throw line hold him back from making a greater impact. Landale's contributions are in line with expectations for a low-minute rotational player, but there is room for growth, particularly on the defensive end and in free-throw accuracy.

Grade: C

Landale’s performance has been adequate for his role as a depth option. While he brings effort and reliability in certain aspects, improvements in scoring consistency, defensive presence, and free-throw shooting would elevate his impact and potentially earn him more minutes.