Houston Rockets: Five early roster predictions for the 2017-18 season
The verdict – pretty good
Yes, I’m underselling it. Right now, the Houston Rockets’ bench is a one-trick pony and we’ll need to see some vitality signs from “fringe” players to give us the maximum flexibility we’d like to see. Having said that, I’m unsure any team in the league has a bench this deep that is capable of allowing Houston to play three to four styles of basketball.
As it stands, Houston’s first unit is capable of the entire universe of offense with a defensive game that is fairly standard in the NBA these days. The second unit is hurting for offensive diversity. Staggering minutes between Harden and Paul should alleviate that but the frontcourt needs a cutter to really open it up.
Houston is in a position to have all the flexibility it needs, however. It may take some creative rotations which could leave a player out in the cold depending on the game, that’s not the worst problem to have. In the end, look for Houston to solve the rotational clarity issue by the trade deadline all the same.
Bonus Bold Prediction
Given the rotational issues, the need for versatility, and comparative value, look for the Houston Rockets to try to move Nene Hilario at the trade deadline. He likes Houston and came back on a super reasonable deal. He plays a great post game and mid-range game but his defense is not up to the level of PJ Tucker who provides some additional spacing with less of a post-game.
Houston has a major issue in the rotation with Nene. He’s a great forward to have when you’re needing some offense but is he too much of a defensive liability in the second unit? That unit lacks a dedicated center and rim protector and, while welcome, Nene’s offensive production might not provide a strong enough case to fend off Houston’s recent free agent acquisitions.
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There you have it, a look at the early rotation, likely substitutes, and the plea for some fresh blood to offer versatility. Stay tuned to House of Houston going forward to more deep dives on way too early predictions.