1 of 6 three-pointers in 2 games, the Rockets main backcourt position is unstable, Amen + Shepard complement each other, and the rotation of 9 players is 1 player behind

Without VanVleet, the Rockets' offensive ability is still among the top three in the league. Offseason signings are crucial. Durant naturally needs no further explanation. There is no need to prove his superstar ability. He has the ability to help the Rockets save money. Uduka is gradually reducing Durant's playing time. He only played 30 minutes in the last game, and he only played symbolically in the last quarter. The four perimeter players of Ethan, Smith, Amen Thompson and Okogie are fully defensive, among which Okogie is very cost-effective.

Okogie signed a one-year basic salary contract with the Rockets during the offseason. When he joined, he was only positioned as the fourth choice in the back line. Due to VanVleet's injury, the Rockets had no available defender. In the first two games of the regular season, Sheppard was in average condition and Okogie was just a substitute. The team suffered two consecutive losses. Starting from the third game, Udoka adjusted the starting lineup and also changed the Rockets' overall offense and defense. Not only did Okogie have a full defense, three-pointers became a surprise. After 10 games, his shooting rate was as high as 46.9%.

However, Okogie's shooting in the past two games has been average, with a total of 1 of 6 three-pointers. He also frequently hits the corner three-pointers that he is best at. This is his normal shooting level, and his shooting rate will gradually return to normal. The Rockets' goal this year is not just to rank in the regular season, but to compete for the championship is the ultimate goal. The three-pointers of Amen Thompson + Okogie are not very stable. After encountering a strong team, it is easy to be targeted. Durant is double-teamed. If his teammates can't hit the three-point shot, the Rockets' offense will be greatly reduced.

The Rockets have no trading plans for the time being, but the starting lineup will be adjusted. Shepard's recent outbreak has given Uduka more options. Ideally, Shepard plays the main No. 1 position and Amen Thompson plays the No. 2 position. Their styles are very complementary. Shepard's super-high shooting rate not only opens up space for Durant, but also allows Amen Thompson to reduce organizational responsibilities and focus on counterattacks, air cuts and defense. Shepard's explosive mountain team is a turning point this year.

Uduka always maintains a 9-man rotation, and Tate gradually enters the regular lineup. His position should be that of Finney Smith, but he is still recovering from injury, so he can only be temporarily replaced by Tate. The ultimate forward combination is the final version that Uduka wants. The lineup of Durant, Smith, Ethan, Finney Smith and Amen Thompson can cope with the five major lineups, increase the offensive speed, and face small lineups.

At 9:00 on November 15th, the Rockets faced the Trail Blazers. Unfortunately, Yang Hansen was sent to the Development League and had no chance to compete with Shen Jing. This season's Trail Blazers play very much like last year's Rockets. The forwards are very athletic and the offensive rhythm is very fast. They are also the type of rushing and fighting. The current ranking of 7th in the Western Conference is a good proof. The Rockets cannot take it lightly and strive to achieve three consecutive victories. Shepard faces a new challenge. If he can maintain an efficient offense, he is expected to become the main force.