Houston Rockets’ Elite Offensive Rebounding
The Houston Rockets have consistently been among the top teams in the NBA, particularly due to their exceptional offensive rebounding. They average an impressive 16.6 offensive rebounds per game, leading the league in this category. This ability to control the boards not only extends possessions but also fuels their dynamic offense. However, beneath the surface of their success lies a significant challenge that has yet to be fully addressed: their three-point shooting.
Shooting Woes Highlighted by Recent Loss
In their last game against the Utah Jazz, the Rockets fell short with a final score of 133-125. One of the primary reasons for their defeat was their poor three-point shooting. The Rockets managed to hit just 10 out of 34 attempts from beyond the arc, resulting in a meager 29.4% shooting percentage. In contrast, the Jazz shot 40% from three-point range, a stark difference that significantly impacted the game’s outcome. This mismatch in shooting efficiency highlighted the Rockets’ current vulnerability and the need to address their long-range scoring.
Injured Key Players Complicating Roster
The Rockets had high hopes for their three-point shooting with a mix of experienced and emerging players. Fred VanVleet, Reed Sheppard, Kevin Durant, and Dorian Finney-Smith were all expected to be key contributors from long range, with Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr. adding depth. Unfortunately, VanVleet is set to miss a significant portion of the season, and Sheppard, despite his potential, is still developing and lacks the necessary experience. Kevin Durant, while a formidable scorer, has his own set of injury concerns, leaving the Rockets thin on reliable three-point shooters.
Dorian Finney-Smith’s Absence Felt
Dorian Finney-Smith, signed to replace Dillon Brooks after the Durant trade, was a pivotal acquisition for the Rockets. Finney-Smith boasts a career three-point shooting percentage of 41.1%, which would have been a valuable asset to the team. However, he is currently sidelined with an ankle injury sustained during the off-season. The team has been tight-lipped about his return, with coach Ime Udoka recently stating, “Just continue to ramp it up. He’s getting non-contact work in, and got to see how the ankle responds to an increase in the load there. And so don’t really have a timeline.” His absence is increasingly noticeable, especially in games like the recent loss to the Jazz, where additional shooting could have made a significant difference.
Depth Issues Compounding Problems
The Rockets are also grappling with depth issues that exacerbate their shooting struggles. Tari Eason, who could have provided more three-point opportunities, has missed extended time, and Jabari Smith Jr.’s role has not delivered as many scoring chances from beyond the arc as anticipated. Furthermore, Steven Adams, a key player, is unable to play back-to-back games, adding another layer of complexity to the roster management. The Rockets have only faced one back-to-back game scenario so far this season, but as the schedule becomes more congested, having players like Finney-Smith available could provide much-needed relief for the starters and add crucial shooting depth.
Looking Ahead: A Need for Solutions
As the Rockets move forward, addressing their three-point shooting and depth issues will be crucial. The return of Dorian Finney-Smith could provide a significant boost, both in terms of shooting and overall depth. The team will need to find ways to maximize the potential of their current roster while also exploring additional solutions, whether through internal development or potential trades. The upcoming season will be a test of the Rockets’ resilience and adaptability, and how they navigate these challenges will be key to their success.
