Speaking of the Arrows' inside line, this has always been their weakness. Although their starting center Mori's stats look okay, his defense has many fans complaining. This made the Rockets executives realize that strengthening the interior defense is a top priority. The substitute centre-forward position has become a particular focus for them. Originally, Coach Udoka wanted to find a center forward who could play directly, but Landale was not selected. So, their eyes turned to Noel, a player who bears some resemblance to Capela before the Rockets.
Noel's addition is not just a simple personnel change, but also marks a change in the Rockets' tactics and strategy. Former No. 6 pick Noel has excellent defensive and rebounding ability. His career performances, especially on the defensive end, give the Rockets hope of making up for their shortcomings on the inside. With Noel, the Rockets' interior setup could change, making the team's defense more solid.
On the guard line, the Rockets are also facing adjustments. While everyone is optimistic that Jalen Green is the future of the team, his performances this season have led to a re-evaluation of his position. Houston began speculating that coach Udoka might change his starting lineup and even bring Green off the bench. For the Rockets, the season is halfway through and everyone is hoping that Green can prove himself in the next games.
For Smith Jr. personally, the All-Star Game was an invaluable experience. Although he didn't make it to the top, it was an honor for him to represent Houston. Before the game, Smith Jr. said that he cherished this opportunity very much. "I represent Houston, my family and my name," he said. It is my pleasure. This sense of responsibility and pride may be the reason why he participates in the competition. The motivation to continue fighting in the NBA.
Smith Jr.'s basketball career hasn't been smooth. He had high expectations, but was drafted by Houston with the third overall pick. It's both a blow and an opportunity to grow. After joining the Rockets, Smith began to accept reality, worked hard to fit into the team, and found himself last season. Although he was only selected to the rookie second team, this rookie game is another chance for him to prove himself to the world. From disappointment with the draft results to now actively seeking growth, Smith's change in mindset shows his maturity and progress.
With the Rockets, Smith Jr. isn't alone. He wants to show the strength of the Rockets on the court with his teammates, especially Whitmore and Amen Thompson. Although they didn't have many opportunities to play at first, as the season progressed, injuries and other factors provided them with more stages to show themselves. This not only provides a platform for the player's personal growth, but also gives hope for the future of the Rockets.
While the Rockets' young players, including Smith Jr., didn't get what they expected in their rookie game, the experience was an asset in itself. They face Pau Gasol's side. Although they were eliminated in the first game, it was a profound lesson for everyone. Smith Jr. said after the game that despite his poor personal performance, it was a rare experience and honor to be able to participate in such a competition and compete with other top rookies.
These experiences are invaluable assets for the rockets. The team is rebuilding and every failure and success paves the way for the player's future. The Rockets' management decisions, whether it's the draft or mid-season roster changes, are driven by the long-term development of the team. Whether it is the addition of Noel or the development of young players, it has laid the foundation for the future success of the Rockets.
In the end, the Houston Rockets aren't just about winning this season. It's more about building and developing, about putting together a group of young, talented players into a competitive team. Smith Jr. and his teammates have grown along the way, and their story is far from over. For fans, seeing these young players grow through challenges and failures may be the biggest reward of the season.
What do you think? Welcome to share your views and ** in the comment area, let's look forward to the future of rockets together!