The 2023-24 Houston Rockets have experienced remarkable growth, finishing the season with a 41-41 record, a significant improvement from their 22-60 record the previous year. This impressive turnaround, featuring 19 more wins, showcases the promising potential of their young core.
Houston Rockets’ Rising Stars
Houston’s success was driven by several key young players, including 2021 first-round draft picks Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, along with Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason from the 2022 draft. Despite some challenges, including Eason’s injury and limited minutes for rookies Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore, the core group delivered outstanding performances.
The Ringer recently recognized this talent by including three Houston Rockets players in their ranking of the NBA’s top 25 players under the age of 25. Let’s dive into where each player stands and the reasons for their recognition and potential doubts.
No. 25: Jabari Smith Jr.
Reason for Hope
Jabari Smith Jr. combines length and shooting, two highly valuable assets in today’s NBA. Picture Aaron Gordon with Jaden McDaniels’s arms and a silky jump shot. Smith’s defensive versatility and shooting ability (36% from three and 81% from the free-throw line) indicate significant offensive potential. The 21-year-old forward could be a crucial role player on a championship team.
Reason for Doubt
However, Smith’s narrowing role in his second season raises concerns. Despite being a top-three pick, his offensive impact remains theoretical, and metrics suggest he might not be as effective defensively as hoped.
No. 22: Jalen Green
Reason for Hope
Jalen Green possesses all the ingredients for stardom: elite confidence, electrifying movement, and three-level scoring ability. After a rocky start, Green shone in the last 17 games of the season, averaging 24.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists with 38% shooting from beyond the arc.
Reason for Doubt
Green’s improvement came while Alperen Sengun was sidelined, allowing him more opportunities to attack the rim. The true test will be whether Green can maintain his decision-making, defensive effort, and shooting accuracy when reintegrated with Sengun next season.
No. 12: Alperen Sengun
Reason for Hope
Alperen Sengun made significant strides in his third season, becoming a finalist for Most Improved Player. His performance draws comparisons to Nikola Jokic, albeit with more athleticism. Sengun’s progress on both ends of the court in a competitive environment bodes well for his future.
Reason for Doubt
Despite his strengths, Sengun’s three-point shooting remains a concern. More critically, his defense in a playoff context raises questions about whether the Houston Rockets can rely on him as their defensive anchor or if they will need to acquire a rim protector.
Houston Rockets’ Bright Future
The inclusion of Jabari Smith Jr., Jalen Green, and Alperen Sengun in The Ringer’s top 25-and-under rankings underscores the bright future of the Houston Rockets. These young stars have already made significant impacts and hold the promise of leading the team to greater heights.
As the Houston Rockets continue to develop their young core, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these players will evolve and contribute to the team’s success in the coming seasons. With such talent, Houston’s future in the NBA looks promising.
