The results are in.
Almost 800 fans shared their insights regarding the Houston Rockets as we approach the 2024-25 season. Following a season in which the franchise secured 41 wins, there is newfound optimism that few could have anticipated just a few years ago. The team boasts a promising young core, a head coach who has transformed the locker room atmosphere rapidly, and a front office demonstrating patience and a commitment to growth.
Currently, the team is entrenched in Phase 2, which may signify varied meanings for different supporters. However, progress is evident, which is always encouraging. Let’s delve into what you all had to say about your team’s condition.
Q: Are you confident the Rockets are heading in the right direction?
Although this nearly unanimous response is understandable, it is still striking to observe the shift from where the team stood a few seasons back.
Last year, nearly two-thirds of Rockets supporters felt positive about the franchise’s direction after the hiring of head coach Ime Udoka and the acquisitions of Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks. Following a 41-win season and the further development of its young roster—with hopes for ongoing improvement—almost all respondents concur that Houston is on an upward trajectory.
This team occupies a much healthier, more competitive position now than at the beginning of the rebuild.
Q: How would you grade the Rockets’ draft night—Reed Sheppard with the No. 3 pick?
This reaction does not surprise me, either.
In the weeks leading up to the 2024 NBA Draft, Sheppard appeared to have already won over the fans with his exceptional shooting skills from beyond the arc. Given the Rockets’ roster struggles, floor spacing is arguably the most pressing issue, and Sheppard’s shooting ability elevates him above many of his peers. Additionally, his performance during summer league boosted his status heading into a highly competitive training camp.
It’s important to note that this draft class does not seem as robust as some in previous years, so the fact that 96 percent of fans rated Sheppard’s selection with either an “A” or “B” is a promising sign.
Q: Did you expect the Rockets to finish the 2023-24 season with a 41-41 record?
Prior to March, I anticipated the Rockets would end up close to their preseason forecast (Vegas set the line at 31.5 wins). The team was struggling as they approached the All-Star break, having suffered five losses in six games and appeared to be grappling with a new system alongside increased expectations. By the unofficial midway point of the season, Houston stood at 24-30, and if someone had suggested they would wrap up the season with 30 wins, I would have accepted that wager.
Then March arrived.
No matter how you choose to credit the turnaround—be it small ball tactics, Jalen Green’s scoring surge, or a favorable schedule—the Rockets managed to secure 13 wins out of 15 games that month, putting them back in the conversation for the Play-In Tournament. Though they ultimately lacked the momentum to carry them through the final phase, that remarkable 15-game stretch certainly took us by surprise. I was genuinely astonished.
Q: What is the fewest number of wins the Rockets could achieve in the 2024-25 season to be deemed successful?
I’m glad to observe that fans have realistic expectations.
This question has occupied my thoughts throughout the offseason. Moving from 22 wins in 2023 to 41 in 2024 necessitated significant improvement across all facets and a bit of luck—as is common in the NBA. A leap of 19 wins year-over-year makes the next progression even more challenging, especially since the Western Conference shows no signs of easing up.
If the Rockets conclude the season with a 43-39 record, I believe that would indeed be a success. It would dispel the notion that their impressive March performance was just a fluke and indicate that the team has made significant strides, tying back to the initial question of whether they are on the right path.
Approximately one-third of fans consider 46 wins as their benchmark, which should qualify them for the Play-In Tournament. That’s also a reasonable expectation, particularly if one weighs the Rockets’ late-season struggles during the 2023-24 campaign.
Q: How many wins do you anticipate the Rockets will achieve in the 2024-25 season?
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Although I may not share the same perspective as the majority—I’ve projected Houston for 43 wins—it’s not such a significant deviation. The general expectation among fans is that this team will be competitive in the upcoming season.
The Rockets experienced a relatively uneventful offseason, which we will discuss later, but there is ample reason to believe that their young players will show improvement as the new season approaches. Analyzing Houston’s performance in closely contested games (17-23 in “clutch” situations, as noted by NBA.com), it’s clear that different decision-making, shot selection, or even luck might have influenced several results. With another season under their belts, these players should be better prepared for tight matchups, potentially turning that 17-23 record into 23-17.
Injuries certainly played a role as well. Alperen Şengün missed the last 19 games of the season, and as the team’s standout player, his absence significantly affected their win totals—especially for a young squad still developing its identity.
Q: Where do you expect the Rockets to finish by the end of the regular season?
No matter what your win expectations are for the upcoming season, the prevailing sentiment is that it’s time for playoff basketball. This is a thought I never envisioned expressing three years into a rebuilding process.
For what it’s worth, I concur with this sentiment. Teams like Memphis and San Antonio have stepped up their competitiveness, which compresses the middle tier of the standings. Last season, 46 wins were required to secure a spot in the Play-In Tournament, but I believe 43 wins should suffice this time around. Could Rockets fans finally see their team make a return to the postseason?
Q: Are you confident in GM Rafael Stone and the Rockets’ front office?
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That’s a solid response. Besides possibly the top three seeds in each conference from the previous season (Boston, Milwaukee, New York, Denver, Minnesota, and Oklahoma City), I wouldn’t place much trust in any other front office. A degree of cautious optimism is essential, which aligns with the sentiments of at least half the fanbase.
Examining the roster, there have been several successes attributed to Stone’s management. Alongside Şengün, Green, and the previously mentioned Sheppard, emerging talents such as Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore exhibit potential. Additionally, Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr. have proven to be valuable players who are likely to continue improving.
However, there have also been shortcomings. The team’s investments in Josh Christopher, Usman Garuba, and TyTy Washington Jr. did not yield positive results and cost first-round picks. Although Kevin Porter Jr. was acquired at a low expense, it could be argued that Green’s growth suffered as a result. Both Christian Wood in Year 2 and Bruno Fernando encroached on Şengün’s playing time and development; if we’re analyzing decisions post-factum, those signings—and Daniel Theis’s—were arguably unnecessary.
No general manager or front office can succeed with every choice they make. The distinction among the 30 teams lies in establishing consistency, not just in player development but also through trades, free agency, and overall adaptability. It’s an evolving scenario. If 90 percent of Rockets fans express fair to strong confidence in Stone, it bodes well for the franchise.
Q: Do you feel Ime Udoka improved the team during his first season as head coach?
I didn’t anticipate much variation in this response, but I found the six percent of fans who felt Udoka only somewhat enhanced the team to be quite interesting.
I would argue that transforming a 22-win squad into a 41-win team on the brink of the postseason certainly indicates improvement. However, perhaps this portion of fans is focusing on a more strategic viewpoint. As the offseason approached, Udoka extensively discussed the necessity to diversify Houston’s offensive strategy, recognizing that it had grown somewhat stagnant.
Taking a devil’s advocate stance (representing the six percent), one could argue that Udoka didn’t acquire VanVleet and Brooks, nor did he draft Thompson and Whitmore. Nevertheless, he effectively utilized the available talent and turned the Rockets into a top-10 defensive team. In my opinion, that level of improvement should warrant a “Yes” in evaluating his impact.
Q: Were you surprised by Houston’s lack of free agency activity (signings or trades)?
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This summer, contrary to previous years, Rockets fans aren’t actively discussing free-agent signings. Ordinarily, I would be outlining potential trade targets in a fake trades column and analyzing the Houston front office’s aggressiveness. However, these past months have been unusually calm, and it seems this doesn’t bother anyone.
Currently, Houston’s rotation appears finalized. Steven Adams has not yet taken the floor, and Eason has yet to mesh within Udoka’s system. These factors, together with Sheppard’s arrival, represent sufficient offseason activity for many Rockets supporters. Fair enough.
Q: Which young player needs to take the biggest leap next season for the Rockets to improve?
If I had to cast my vote, I would choose Thompson. Should he develop a reliable jumper, his explosive athleticism, defensive versatility, rebounding skills, and playmaking abilities would likely secure him a spot over Brooks in the starting lineup eventually. Moreover, transitioning from being a spacing non-factor to a valuable asset could offer this team a significant boost. However, I understand why 62 percent of fans selected Green.
This will be a pivotal season for the fourth-year guard as he considers extension talks. So far, inconsistency has hindered his performance the most. If Green can replicate the level he showcased in March throughout the entire season (or even slightly below it), the Rockets’ future—both short- and long-term—looks promising. We’ve witnessed Green’s ability to dominate games, and I believe Şengün has already made “the leap” this past season. Thus, this outcome does not catch me off guard.
Q: Which player is primed for a breakout season?
Refer to the response above for my reasons for supporting Thompson. I anticipated that these two would be closely linked. However, it appears fans are somewhat split on which player is poised for a breakout season. Twenty-seven percent opted for Thompson, while there are compelling arguments for his fellow USA Select Team member Smith, alongside slightly smaller percentages for Green and Şengün. It’s almost a nice dilemma to have with so many young talents under contract.
Q: Do you believe Alperen Şengün can become a top-15 player in the NBA?
The Rockets have made significant investments in Şengün’s development, most recently dispatching several assistants to Turkey over the summer to aid in his recovery and growth. Last season, the third-year center came close to being an All-Star, showcasing enough talent—particularly on the offensive end—to project multiple All-Star appearances in his future, potentially starting as early as this coming season. I see him firmly established as the franchise player.
However, 40 percent of fans remain uncertain about his potential to be a top-15 player. This doesn’t imply they doubt he could become an All-Star or a top-25 player. It specifically pertains to players considered to be Tier 1 in the NBA. At just 22 years old, he still has time to evolve. I believe he can attain that level, but I also respect the skeptics.
Q: Do you believe Jalen Green can become a top-15 player in the NBA?
It seems that Green still has a long way to go to convince fans that he deserves consideration as a future franchise player. Three-quarters of the respondents harbor significant skepticism regarding Green’s ability to achieve superstar status, which reflects their voting concerning his development’s impact on the Rockets’ success on the court. There’s still work ahead.
(Photo of Jalen Green: Carmen Mandato / Getty Images)
# Rockets Fans Weigh In: Optimism Abounds for Houston’s Future Ahead of 2024-25 Season
As the Houston Rockets gear up for the 2024-25 NBA season, fans are buzzing with excitement and optimism. After a challenging few years, the organization appears to be on the cusp of resurgence. In this article, we’ll explore the factors contributing to the optimism surrounding the Rockets, fan sentiment, and what to expect as the season approaches.
## Key Factors Driving Optimism
### 1. **Emerging Young Talent**
One of the primary reasons for the upbeat mood among Rockets fans is the wealth of young talent on the roster. The front office has made strategic decisions to acquire promising players through the draft and trades.
**Key Young Players to Watch:**
– **Jalen Green**: The dynamic shooting guard has shown flashes of brilliance. His scoring ability and athleticism make him a cornerstone for the franchise.
– **Alperen Şengün**: The Turkish big man has quickly become a fan favorite with his versatile skill set, court vision, and ability to score inside.
– **Amen Thompson**: The recent draft pick has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s top playmakers due to his exceptional passing and defensive prowess.
### 2. **Strategic Coaching Changes**
The Rockets made significant coaching changes that have revitalized the organization. Bringing in a coach with a clear vision and ability to develop young players has heightened expectations.
– **Coaching Philosophy**: The new coaching staff emphasizes player development, creating an environment conducive for young athletes to thrive.
– **Tactical Innovations**: Fans have noted the implementation of innovative offensive and defensive schemes, making the Rockets a more competitive team.
### 3. **Offseason Acquisitions**
The Rockets’ front office has worked diligently during the offseason to fill gaps in the roster. Key acquisitions during free agency have bolstered the team’s depth and experience.
**Notable Additions:**
– **Veteran Presence**: Signing experienced players who can guide the younger roster has been crucial in building a solid foundation.
- **Defensive Specialists**: The Rockets have prioritized players known for their defensive skills, addressing one of the team’s previous weaknesses.
## Fan Sentiment and Community Engagement
### 1. **Social Media Buzz**
Rockets fans are actively engaging on social media, discussing potential lineups, player performances, and predictions for the upcoming season. Hashtags like #RocketsFuture and #HoustonStrong have gained traction, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm.
### 2. **Fan Events and Gatherings**
Local fan events have been organized to foster community spirit and support for the team. These gatherings provide opportunities for fans to connect, share their hopes for the season, and celebrate Rockets culture.
### 3. **Season Ticket Sales Surge**
With the promise of an exciting season ahead, season ticket sales have seen a notable increase. Fans are eager to witness the young talent in action and support the team in person at the Toyota Center.
## Benefits of Following the Houston Rockets
### 1. **Exciting Game Atmosphere**
Attending Rockets games offers an electrifying atmosphere. The passionate fan base, combined with thrilling gameplay, makes for an unforgettable experience.
### 2. **Community Connection**
Supporting the Rockets provides an opportunity to connect with others in the Houston community. Fans share a common bond that extends beyond basketball, fostering friendships and camaraderie.
### 3. **Access to Emerging Stars**
Fans can witness the growth of potential star players firsthand. Following the Rockets means being part of their journey as they develop into elite athletes.
## Practical Tips for Fans Heading Into the 2024-25 Season
### 1. **Stay Informed**
To keep up with the Rockets’ progress, fans should follow reputable sports news outlets and the official Rockets website. This ensures they receive timely updates on player performances, injuries, and team news.
### 2. **Engage on Social Media**
Participating in discussions on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit can enhance the fan experience. Engaging with other fans fosters a sense of belonging and provides diverse perspectives on the team.
### 3. **Attend Games Early**
Arriving early for games provides fans the chance to soak in the atmosphere, watch warm-ups, and participate in pre-game activities. It’s an excellent way to connect with fellow fans.
## Case Studies: Recent Successful Rebuilds in the NBA
### 1. **Memphis Grizzlies**
The Memphis Grizzlies underwent a similar rebuild, focusing on young talent and strategic acquisitions. Their commitment to player development paid off, leading to a playoff appearance within a few years.
**Key Takeaway**: Consistency in coaching and player development is vital for a successful rebuild.
### 2. **Boston Celtics**
The Celtics’ rebuild was marked by strategic trades and draft picks. They cultivated a strong core of young talent resulting in multiple deep playoff runs.
**Key Takeaway**: Building around a few cornerstone players can accelerate a franchise’s return to competitiveness.
## First-Hand Experience: A Fan’s Perspective
As a lifelong Rockets fan, attending games at the Toyota Center has always been electrifying. Witnessing Jalen Green’s explosive dunks and Alperen Şengün’s crafty moves up close creates an unmatched experience. The camaraderie among fans, especially during tense moments of a close game, amplifies the thrill of being part of the Rockets community.
### Personal Highlights:
– **Memorable Games**: The energy during comeback wins is something every fan cherishes.
– **Player Interactions**: Engaging with players during fan events creates lasting memories and strengthens the bond between the team and its supporters.
## What to Expect in the 2024-25 Season
### Upcoming Matchups
The Rockets’ schedule features several exciting matchups, including games against top teams:
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Expected Highlights |
|————|——————–|————–|———————————————–|
| Nov 15, 2024 | Los Angeles Lakers | Toyota Center| Jalen Green vs. LeBron James |
| Dec 10, 2024 | Golden State Warriors| Chase Center | Alperen Şengün’s showdown with Stephen Curry |
| Jan 22, 2025 | Dallas Mavericks | Toyota Center| Local rivalry—intense atmosphere expected |
### Key Metrics to Follow
Fans are encouraged to keep an eye on various performance metrics throughout the season:
– **Player Efficiency Ratings (PER)**: A measure of a player’s overall effectiveness.
– **Win Shares**: A statistic that attempts to measure a player’s contribution to their team’s success.
– **Defensive Ratings**: Evaluates the team’s defensive efficiency, crucial for a balanced approach.
With the excitement building and optimism abounding, the Houston Rockets are poised for a compelling season ahead. Fans are ready to rally behind their young stars and witness the evolution of the team as they aim for a brighter future in the NBA.
