Houston — Head coach Ime Udoka confirmed the Houston Rockets have one vacancy left in their opening lineup as training camp approaches later this month.
Speaking at a team function in Houston, Udoka told RocketsWire’s Ben DuBose, “It’s to be determined. We feel we have incredible depth this year and a lot of versatility, so we could go a number of different ways.”
Four positions are set: Kevin Durant, Alperen Şengün, Amen Thompson and Fred VanVleet are penciled in as starters. The competition for the fifth slot will begin when camp opens.
Forward Jabari Smith Jr. appears to be the front-runner. The 6-foot-11 former lottery pick started 39 games last season before a broken hand interrupted his rookie campaign. After returning, he shifted to a sixth-man role while Thompson held onto the starting job.
Veteran center Steven Adams is another option if Udoka opts for a double-big alignment. Adams carved out a postseason role against Golden State and could reprise that look next to Şengün.
New free-agent addition Dorian Finney-Smith, who hit 41.1 percent from three-point range with the Lakers last season, offers perimeter defense and shooting. Second-year wing Tari Eason, who logged 16 starts a season ago, brings energy and defensive disruption and will also be in the mix.
Udoka said the decision will be made during camp, emphasizing the roster’s flexibility and depth.
Source: Hoops Wire
