The Houston Rockets concluded their preseason schedule with a commanding 116-89 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 15.
The Rockets posted a 2-1 record in their three exhibition games. They split a two-game series with the Dallas Mavericks overseas, winning 135-117 on October 9 before falling 115-132 on October 11. Key players like Fred VanVleet and Alperen Sengun saw significant action, with Sengun notching a triple-double in just 22 minutes during the first game against Dallas. Coach Ime Udoka will be pleased with the offensive firepower but knows reducing turnovers, which hit 21 in one game, is a priority.
Houston's first official game is a rematch with the Mavericks at home on October 21. The preseason series gave both teams a preview, but the regular season meeting will have a different intensity. Dallas head coach Dusty May managed his stars' minutes in the exhibitions, holding out Kyrie Irving for the first game. The Mavericks' lineup decisions for the opener will be a major factor. For the Rockets, integrating their core and establishing a consistent defensive identity from the opening tip will be the challenge.
Fred VanVleet's return to the lineup was a positive sign for the backcourt's stability. Alperen Sengun's all-around game suggests he's ready for a major role. The team's scoring ability is not in question after putting up 135 and 116 points in their wins. However, the 132 points allowed in the loss to Dallas and the turnover issues are clear areas for Udoka to address. Preseason is for working out kinks, and the Rockets identified theirs while building cohesion.
Injury management is part of the preseason process. The Mavericks were cautious with Kyrie Irving, and other veterans across the league saw limited action. For Houston, getting through the exhibitions healthy was the primary goal. As of now, the Rockets appear to have a clean bill of health heading into the matchup with Dallas. Staying that way will be important for a strong start to the long NBA campaign. Fans can monitor any updates on our injuries hub.
The work now begins in earnest. The Houston Rockets have shown flashes of their potential during the preseason. Converting that into wins when the games start counting is the next step.
