Josh Okogie Poised for a Major Role with the Rockets
Houston's Rockets are showing improvement after a slow start, securing back-to-back wins against the Brooklyn Nets and Toronto Raptors. Following an initial 0-2 record, the team is gradually finding its rhythm.
Team Lineup and Rotation Changes
The Rockets are still determining their optimal starting lineup around key players Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, and Amen Thompson. Jabari Smith Jr. has demonstrated significant progress with 25 points, five rebounds, and five assists, and is likely a consistent starter.
- The fifth starter position remains open due to Fred VanVleet's season-ending injury.
- Coach Ime Udoka has experimented with different lineups, including an opening night lineup featuring Steven Adams alongside other tall players, creating one of the tallest NBA lineups in history.
- Recently, the team shifted to a smaller, versatile lineup, inserting Josh Okogie as a guard to keep players in their natural positions.
Performance and Impact
The Rockets' defense has struggled early on, but their offense has been highly effective, even with defensive-minded players like Okogie. The 6-foot-4 guard has shown efficiency, averaging 9.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1 assist per game.
Against the Raptors, Okogie scored 10 points, with one rebound and two assists in 23 minutes, shooting 4-of-5 from the field.
Summary
Josh Okogie is emerging as a key player for the Rockets, helping the team shift tactics and improve its performance early in the season.