The Houston Rockets have undergone a significant transformation since trading former superstar James Harden to the Brooklyn Nets in January 2021. It marked the beginning of a new era focused on rebuilding and developing young talent.
Under general manager Rafael Stone, the Rockets have strategically acquired talented players and young players to build a foundation for the future. The 2021 NBA Draft was a pivotal moment, with the Rockets selecting Jalen Green with the second overall pick. Green, known for his scoring prowess and athleticism, quickly became a cornerstone of the team’s rebuilding efforts.
Alongside Green, Alperen Şengün was selected in the first round and has since emerged as one of the NBA’s top young talents. Şengün, a versatile big man, has impressed with his basketball IQ and skill set.
In addition to Green and Şengün, the Rockets selected Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason in the first round of the 2022 NBA draft. Eason has been an effective rebounder in his role with Houston, while Smith Jr. has served as a complementary piece to Green and Şengün.
The young core was nearly complete in 2023 after Houston selected Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore in the first round of last year’s draft. Thompson has shown he can be a Swiss Army knife for the Rockets, playing big minutes early in his career, while Whitmore has made the most of his playing time, scoring at a high volume.
The Rockets also made strategic moves in free agency and trades to complement their young core. Acquiring veteran players like Fred VanVleet, Dillon Brooks and Steven Adams provided valuable mentorship and stability during the early stages of the rebuild. That translated into a 19-win increase from 2023 to 2024, as the Rockets went 41-41 last season.
Head coach Ime Udoka has played a pivotal role in the Rockets’ rebuilding process, emphasizing player development and creating a culture of hard work and resilience. Despite challenges and growing pains on offense, the Rockets have shown glimpses of their potential, with their young stars making significant strides each season and the defense being one of the best in the league.
Looking ahead, the Rockets are well-positioned for success thanks to a plethora of draft capital and a young, promising core. They selected Reed Sheppard with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and he has already shown promise after stealing the show at NBA Summer League. Houston’s commitment to player development and smart roster moves bode well for their long-term prospects.
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