HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 07: Jalen Green #4 of the Houston Rockets controls the ball during the first half against the Toronto Raptors at Toyota Center on October 07, 2022 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
Despite finishing with one of the worst records in the NBA last season, there is some reason for optimism for the 2022-23 Houston Rockets.
We all know who is going to dominate the national spotlight in the Western Conference t may be time for the networks to shift away from their regularly-scheduled programming and pay more attention to the Houston Rockets and what is brewing.
Despite their opening loss to Atlanta, the team scored 107 points. Giving up 117 didn’t help, yet they have a very young team and are still in a rebuild atmosphere; the youth will eventually trounce the veterans. Sure, Houston may not make the postseason this year and will likely need one more year to ultimately reveal their new look. But this year, there is a lot to look forward to if you are a fan of the Rockets.
3. Young, underrated talent has everything to gain and nothing to lose
From an outsider’s perspective, the Rockets are a team that is still years away. While in many ways that can be an issue, in no way is it a complete detriment. It’s a blessing in disguise for Stephen Silas and the rest of the staff. It gives them the flexibility to run their scheme with young, fresh parts.
Despite Eric Gordon (age 33) being the veteran in the starting lineup, the average age of the other four starters is 21.25. Kevin Porter Jr and Bruno Fernando are 24 and 22 years young, respectively. Jalen Green and rookie Jabari Smith are 20 and 19.
That should tell you something. Additionally, reserve shooter Josh Christopher is 20. Garrison Matthews is 25, and Jae’Sean Tate, who missed the season-opening loss to Atlanta, is 26. Alpren Sengun is 20. That’s not a bad group to start with. Moreover, by going through the growing pains at a young age, it’s only a matter of time before Houston blasts off.
