Team Rocket changes formation!The classic 9-man rotation is back online, and Udoka is stubborn
On the 18th Beijing time, the Rockets will usher in a tough challenge against the Bucks. The Bucks, with the combination of Lillard and Antetokounmpo, have put a lot of pressure on Houston. Although this team was relatively weak, they showed an indomitable fighting attitude, and fought their way out of the disadvantage several times, dragging the game into the fourth quarter.
In this game, the most pleasing thing is the return of the Rockets' young player Jayshawn Tate. After missing a game against the Grizzlies due to physical discomfort, Tate recovered, which is good news, although he is not in great physical condition. Defender Thompson is still recovering from an injury and is unavailable.
This time, the Rockets made a big change to their starters, sending out a 10-man rotation due to the absence of Tate and Thompson. After Tate's return, the Rockets reverted to their traditional nine-man lineup. In addition to the starting five, the Rockets' four reserve players are still Holiday , Tate, Eason and 37-year-old Jeff Green, which is also a cycle they often use. Unlike the starters, both Landale and Reggie Bullock were left on the bench and did not get any playing time.
The Rockets' nine-man rotation plays well, both offensively and defensively. The starting position can be attacking, defending, or scoring in the box, while there is also a good striker and a good defender on the bench. The Rockets' bench is basically full of all-round players, and everyone has their own place. However, against a strong Bucks, this nine is clearly not enough, and the Rockets do not have enough forwards.
Although the nine men took turns to play well, the Rockets still felt a little inadequate. The lack of someone who can break through the defense, especially against the Bucks, is a headache. In particular, the team lacks strikers who can both attack independently and score effectively.
Udoka looks conservative and has shown a lot of caution after signing several potential rookies and quality reserves. In addition to the nine-man cycle, the lack of newcomers caused a lot of difficulties for the rockets. Some high-level players, such as Landale, Bullock, and scoring champion Whitmore, don't get enough playing time. Obviously, this is a conservative approach against a strong opponent like the Bucks, but at the same time it is a helpless approach.
Overall, while the Rockets have shown some shortcomings in this nine-man rotation, the roster has been effective against most opponents. Udoka's cautious approach to the players helped him a lot in his performance.