Houston Rockets head coach Mike D'Antoni expects center Clint Capela to be ‘great' in the upcoming 2019-20 season.

D'Antoni, who's coming back for his fourth year as Rockets head coach, noted that Capela has always brought his game up a notch every year. The veteran tactician also pointed out how Capela's FIBA World Cup experience could help him in the upcoming season.

Moreover, D'Antoni recalled Capela's poor performance in the 2019 playoffs and defended his young center. The coach said that the Swiss big man was sick during the postseason, which affected his play.

Over the past few seasons, Capela has established himself as one of the key pillars of the Rockets. Last season, he led the team in rebounds (12.7 per game) and blocked shots (1.5) per game.

This season, much more is expected from Capela. The Rockets just acquired former MVP Russell Westbrook via trade and part of Capela's task is to find a way to co-exist with their new star.

Given Westbrook's high-octane playing style, Capela will have to raise his intensity level to the max.

D'Antoni, too, will likely design some plays involving Capela and Westbrook. As such, they have to execute it seamlessly if they want to succeed. But considering D'Antoni's confidence in him, there shouldn't be a problem in Houston.