OKC Thunder vs. Houston Rockets – a rookie smorgasbord

Key matchups:

In a similar manner to how the Thunder are developing their youngsters so too are the Rockets. Four players should draw the biggest defensive attention.

Of course Green will be the player everyone focuses on and may draw Luguentz Dort as a defender. However, it’s equally likely Dort could be tasked to guard Kevin Porter Jr. who will be the primary ball-handler.

Green had a rough debut shooting 4 of 14 from the field (1 of 6 from deep) for nine points. He also added four rebounds, four assists, and a steal but was a game worst minus 37.

Christian Wood established himself last season as a core member of the Rockets’ future and as such will present a challenge likely for Darius Bazley to address. Wood led the Rockets in their opener with 16 points and nine rebounds.

Recalling this past NBA Draft the Rockets rookie of most interest here at Intentions is big man Alperen Sengun. He landed in Houston via the Thunder (for the 16th pick that came with the Kemba Walker trade). Sam Presti traded the pick to Houston in exchange for two future picks. Specifically, OKC gained the Pistons 2022 (top 16 protected) and Wizards (lottery protected) 2023 first-round picks which will likely take a few years to convey.

In the opening match, Sengun performed well registering 11 points on 3 of 4 from the field (perfect 5 for 5 at the line) plus six rebounds, two assists, and three steals in 19 minutes.