Jeff Bzdelik to return to Rockets staff as 'defensive coordinator,' report says

Jeff Bzdelik will be back with the Rockets later this month as "defensive coordinator" charged with improving the 3-5 team that is allowing 112.1 points per game, ESPN.com reported Monday, citing an unidentified league source.

Bzdelik, 65, will rejoin coach Mike D'Antoni's staff full time after Thanksgiving, according to the report.

The longtime defensive specialist retired just ahead of training camp this season. He had overseen the Rockets' defensive schemes the previous two seasons, during which time Houston improved substantially and registered the NBA's best record in 2017-18.

Per ESPN, which cited an unidentified source, "(h)e has resolved family issues involved with the move, but still has some commitments that will keep him from joining the team until later this month.

Bzdelik has more than three decades of experience at both the professional and collegiate level.

While the Rockets' opposition points allowed thus far this season falls in the middle of the pack in the league, they're allowing almost six points per game than they're scoring.

Entering Monday's game at the Pacers, Houston is only 1 1/2 games out of last place in the Western Conference.