Cooper Flagg’s Rapid NBA Rise: A Testament to Talent and Adaptability
The Houston Rockets have taken the NBA by storm this season, defying all expectations and emerging as a legitimate force in the Western Conference. Once dismissed as a young team in need of more time to develop, the Rockets have rapidly transformed into one of the scariest teams in the league. With a 15-6 record, the fourth-best offense, and the second-best defense, Houston has proven that their success is no fluke. The combination of veteran leadership, young talent, and a unique system has made them a nightmare for opposing teams.
A Young Core with Veteran Leadership
The Rockets’ roster is a perfect blend of youth and experience. At the center of their resurgence is Kevin Durant, the 37-year-old superstar who joined Houston in what many considered to be another failed “super team” experiment. Coming off a disappointing stint with the Phoenix Suns, Durant was written off by critics as a washed-up veteran chasing one last ring. But Durant has silenced the doubters in spectacular fashion, proving he’s still one of the best players in the league.
Durant’s impact goes far beyond his impressive stats—25.2 points per game on elite efficiency. His scoring, gravity, and championship experience have been invaluable to this young Rockets team. Defenses collapse the moment Durant touches the ball, creating open looks for his teammates. His presence has also brought a calming influence to a roster still learning how to win. Durant’s ability to deliver in clutch moments has given Houston the closer they desperately needed last season.
But Durant isn’t carrying this team alone. Alperen Şengün has emerged as a franchise cornerstone, putting up numbers that rival the league’s best big men. Averaging 23.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game, Şengün has become the engine of Houston’s offense. His elite footwork, passing vision, and ability to orchestrate from the high post have drawn comparisons to reigning MVP Nikola Jokić. At just 23 years old, Şengün has already joined LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo as the only players in NBA history to reach 5,000 points, 2,500 rebounds, and 1,000 assists before turning 24.
Together, Durant and Şengün form one of the most dynamic duos in the league. They complement each other perfectly—Durant spaces the floor with his shooting, while Şengün dominates in the post. When one is doubled, the other takes advantage. Their chemistry has been a key factor in Houston’s success, and opposing defenses have struggled to find answers.
A System That Defies Modern Trends
Under head coach Ime Udoka, the Rockets have embraced a style of play that goes against the grain of modern basketball. In an era where teams prioritize three-point shooting and fast-paced offense, Houston has taken a different approach. The Rockets rank dead last in the NBA in three-point attempts, averaging just 29.6 per game. Instead, they focus on isolation scoring, post-ups, and mid-range jumpers—elements of the game that many teams have abandoned.
This old-school approach has been remarkably effective. The Rockets boast the fourth-best offensive rating in the league, proving that efficiency doesn’t always require a barrage of three-pointers. Udoka has built a system that plays to his team’s strengths, allowing Durant and Şengün to thrive in isolation and face-up situations. The Rockets don’t waste possessions searching for the perfect shot—they get the ball to their stars in their spots and let them go to work.
Rebounding has also been a cornerstone of Houston’s success. The Rockets are on pace to shatter the all-time offensive rebounding percentage record, currently sitting at 40.8%. Steven Adams, Clint Capela, and Şengün have been relentless on the glass, combining for 23.2 rebounds per game, including 10.4 offensive boards. This dominance on the boards has demoralized opponents, who struggle to end possessions even when they play solid defense.
Defensively, the Rockets have been just as impressive. They rank third in the league in defensive rating, allowing just 111.1 points per game. Udoka has implemented a versatile system that incorporates zone defense on 18% of possessions—nearly double the rate of any other team. With their length and athleticism, the Rockets can switch seamlessly and disrupt opposing offenses. This unconventional approach has made Houston one of the toughest teams to score against.
The Emergence of Reed Sheppard and Amen Thompson
One of the most remarkable aspects of Houston’s season has been the emergence of Reed Sheppard and Amen Thompson. Sheppard, the third overall pick in the 2024 draft, was initially labeled a bust after a disappointing rookie season. He averaged just 4.4 points per game on 35% shooting, and many questioned whether he could succeed at the NBA level. But when Fred VanVleet tore his ACL before the season, Sheppard was thrust into a larger role—and he delivered.
Sheppard has transformed into a reliable scorer and shooter, averaging 14 points per game while hitting 45% of his three-point attempts. His career-high 31-point performance against the Golden State Warriors, the team that eliminated Houston in last year’s playoffs, was a statement game. Sheppard has earned the trust of his teammates, who encourage him to shoot with confidence. His development has been a game-changer for the Rockets, giving them another weapon on offense.
Amen Thompson, meanwhile, has taken over as the team’s primary playmaker in VanVleet’s absence. The 6’7” point guard has been a revelation, averaging 17.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. Thompson’s athleticism is otherworldly, and his ability to attack the rim and create for others has added a new dimension to Houston’s offense. At just 22 years old, Thompson is still scratching the surface of his potential, and his growth has been a major factor in the Rockets’ success.
Depth and Versatility
What sets the Rockets apart from other teams is their depth. Jabari Smith Jr., who signed a lucrative extension in the offseason, has stepped up as a reliable scorer and defender. Steven Adams and Clint Capela provide elite rebounding and physicality in the paint. Tari Eason, when healthy, is a defensive menace. Jeff Green brings veteran leadership and championship experience. The bench is not just deep—it’s impactful.
This depth allows the Rockets to weather adversity. When Durant needs a night off, Sheppard or Thompson can step up. If Şengün gets into foul trouble, Adams and Capela can dominate the glass. Houston’s roster is built to handle any situation, making them a tough matchup for any opponent.
Can Houston Win It All?
The big question surrounding the Rockets is whether they can translate their regular-season success into a deep playoff run. There are valid concerns—Durant’s age and injury history, the lack of playoff experience among the young core, and the strength of the Western Conference. Teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, and Los Angeles Lakers present formidable challenges, and the path to the Finals will be anything but easy.
However, the Rockets have several factors working in their favor. Their rebounding dominance and defensive versatility are sustainable strengths that will serve them well in the playoffs. Durant’s championship experience provides a steadying presence in high-pressure situations. And the rapid development of players like Şengün, Thompson, and Sheppard suggests that this team is only going to get better.
At the quarter-season mark, the Rockets have already exceeded expectations. Their plus-11 net rating is among the best in the league, and they’ve shown they can compete with the NBA’s elite. This isn’t a flash in the pan—this is a team that has the talent, system, and mindset to contend for a championship.
The Future Is Now
The Houston Rockets are no longer a rebuilding team. They’re a legitimate contender with a bright future. Their young stars are blossoming, their veterans are leading by example, and their unique style of play is confounding opponents. The NBA has a problem, and it’s wearing red. If the Rockets continue on their current trajectory, they won’t just be a playoff team—they’ll be a team no one wants to face in a seven-game series. The Rockets are here, and they’re not going anywhere.
