The Houston Rockets have transformed from a tumultuous franchise following the trade of star player James Harden to a promising young team making significant strides in the Western Conference. Currently positioned second in the competitive standings, the Rockets are enjoying a resurgence as they prepare to face the Golden State Warriors in the Knockout Rounds of the Emirates NBA Cup on Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. ET on TNT.
This rapid improvement comes as a surprise, especially considering the challenges faced after the Harden trade on January 14, 2021. After finishing 44 and 30.5 games out of first place in the previous two seasons, the Rockets demonstrated potential last year with a 19-win increase. They now trail only the Oklahoma City Thunder, a team they recently defeated.
The Rockets’ recent struggles have led to high draft picks, resulting in a talented roster featuring Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, Cam Whitmore, and Amen Thompson, all of whom are integral to the current rotation. The addition of veterans Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks in 2023 has brought leadership and experience to the young squad.
Under the guidance of head coach Ime Udoka, a strong candidate for Coach of the Year, the Rockets have shown resilience, losing by double digits only once this season. They recently avenged that loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder and secured an overtime victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves, a Western Conference finalist last season.
Udoka emphasized a defensive-first mentality, which is crucial for the young players still developing their skills. “Winning is fun,” said Sengun, reflecting the team’s positive mindset.
Four Key Factors Behind the Rockets’ Success
Defensive Commitment: Udoka’s insistence on strong defense has been pivotal. The Rockets rank fourth in opponent points per game, second in opponent field goal percentage, and lead the league in rebounding. Their athletic roster excels in creating turnovers and limiting scoring opportunities for opponents.
Fred VanVleet’s Leadership: Despite initial skepticism regarding his lucrative contract, VanVleet has proven to be a vital asset. After a slow start, he has emerged as a leader on the court, highlighted by a standout performance against the Thunder, where he scored 38 points with only one turnover. “I play to win,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s success.
Alperen Sengun’s Development: Sengun has quickly become the Rockets’ standout player, improving his conditioning and performance after signing a five-year, $185 million extension. His impressive averages of 19.9 points and 10.1 rebounds in November showcase his growth as a low-post threat.
Improved Decision-Making: The Rockets have shown significant growth in their ability to close out games, ranking sixth in fourth-quarter net rating. Their improved shot selection and reduced turnovers contribute to their success in tight contests.
Area for Improvement
Despite their success, the Rockets face challenges with their shooting. They rank 26th in the NBA with a 33.1% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, which could hinder their ability to compete against top teams. “We’re still not making the shots that we used to make,” noted Sengun. The team hopes that continued development from players like Green and Smith will enhance their shooting, or they may look to leverage their young assets and draft capital for a potential trade, possibly targeting Houston native Jimmy Butler.
As the Rockets continue to build on their momentum, their blend of youth and experience positions them as a team to watch in the Western Conference.
Related topics
- DFS Picks & Advice for NBA Fantasy
- Former All-Star forward Paul Millsap retires
- NBA Monthly Awards: Tatum Wembanyama Win
