The Houston Rockets have been preparing for the upcoming NBA season with a set of crucial preseason matchups. Recently, they completed their first two games, achieving a perfect record of 2-0 after victories over the Atlanta Hawks and the Utah Jazz.
Rockets’ Final Preseason Matchups
This week, the Rockets will face two more teams: the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday in Birmingham, Alabama, and the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday in Atlanta. These games will serve as significant dress rehearsals ahead of the season opener on October 21.
Expected Changes in Lineup
With the next games approaching, the Rockets plan to adjust their lineup and playing time. Starters’ minutes will increase significantly, moving toward the mid-20s and 30-minute marks. Coach Ime Udoka noted that the initial games featured a “semi-vanilla” strategy, but more complex schemes will emerge in these upcoming matchups.
- Game 1 starting lineup: Reed Sheppard, Amen Thompson, Tari Eason, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Şengün
- Game 2 adjustments included Kevin Durant, replacing Eason
- Expect further changes to the starting five for each preseason game.
Notably, forward Jae’Sean Tate and wing Dorian Finney-Smith are ruled out for the rest of the preseason, as they recover from ankle surgeries.
Focus on Three-Point Shooting
Three-point shooting has been a significant emphasis for the Rockets this preseason. Last season, inconsistent perimeter shooting hindered performance. The Rockets are encouraging players to increase their three-point attempts, particularly benefiting from the presence of Durant and Şengün.
- 37.3%: Rockets’ shooting percentage from the corners last season
- 35.3%: Overall three-point percentage in the previous season
- 39.7%: Current preseason shooting percentage from beyond the arc over two games
Key shooters, including Aaron Holiday and JD Davison, have shown promise in this regard. Udoka emphasizes the need for faster ball movement and better pace to create quality shot opportunities.
Defensive Improvements Required
Defensive lapses have emerged as a concern for the Rockets. In their first two preseason outings, opponents averaged 50% from the field and 37.2% from three-point range. Last season, the team allowed 109.8 points per game. The defense will need to tighten up before the regular season begins.
Udoka has noted issues with transition defense and communication. The Rockets are experimenting with zone defense, especially in lineups featuring multiple bigs, to adapt to these needs during the season.
As the Rockets prepare for their final preseason games, they aim to refine their strategies on both ends of the court. With adjustments in lineups and a focus on shooting and defense, they hope to enter the regular season ready for success.
