“We are able to use our size and measurement,” Durant said during camp. “Clog the paint up, get offensive rebounds, get out in transition and run.”
That measurement benefit might redefine the Rockets’ id. Udoka has hinted at emphasizing protection, rebounding and tempo — a mixture that might make Houston a nightmare matchup. Thompson’s athleticism, paired with Smith’s perimeter taking pictures, offers the Rockets flexibility regardless of their measurement. With Şengün’s artful passing from the elbow and Adams’ physicality inside, Houston might dominate the paint and the glass.
The final dance for Durant
However past the tall-ball lineup, the story focuses on Durant, the 37-year-old famous person who nonetheless has one thing to show after signing what possible might be his last major contract extension.
After successful two championships with the Warriors, Durant hasn’t had success elsewhere in capturing one other ring. His Brooklyn Nets tenure imploded, his Phoenix Suns stint fell quick, and critics have questioned whether or not he can lead a group to the highest because the unquestioned focus.
As Charles Barkley has acknowledged, “Can KD win because the bus driver?”
Now in Houston, Durant — who scored 23 factors Tuesday — could also be staring down his final official shot at including one other title to his résumé. The Rockets’ roster blends younger stars and seasoned veterans in a method few of his earlier groups have. Udoka’s disciplined system and a protection anchored by Adams might give Durant the construction he has lacked lately.
Kevin Durant’s legacy
Durant’s legacy is already secure with two Finals MVPs, 4 scoring titles, an MVP award and 14 All-Star appearances, however truthful or not, historical past tends to separate the nice from the immortal by their rings. Successful one with out Stephen Curry and the Warriors would silence one of many final lingering narratives round his profession.
For Houston, which completed 52-30 final season, the danger and reward are equally large. The group is betting on its measurement, expertise and Durant’s enduring greatness to vault past first-round playoff standing. It’s an audacious transfer in a league that has more and more favored small-ball lineups and pace-and-space offenses.
Nonetheless, the Rockets imagine they’ve discovered the proper steadiness between size, versatility and veteran management. If this lineup clicks, it couldn’t solely dominate the common season but additionally shift the league’s strategy to group building.
The grand experiment might not work, however one factor is for certain: The Rockets are going massive, and Kevin Durant goes for one final massive second.
