Houston Rockets’ Surprising Shift in Strategy
The Houston Rockets have undergone a significant transformation in their playing style over the past few years. Once known for their relentless pursuit of three-point shots, the franchise has redefined its identity since the days of James Harden. From 2012 until his departure in 2021, the Rockets consistently led the NBA in three-point attempts, emblematic of the league-wide shift towards perimeter shooting. Their innovative approach, alongside teams like the Golden State Warriors, helped usher in what has been dubbed the “three-point revolution.”
Rebuilding Phase and Continued Evolution
During the rebuilding years from 2021 to 2023, the Rockets were a youthful squad, focused on development rather than immediate success. As they integrated high draft picks into their roster, losses accrued, but the organization remained steadfast in its commitment to player growth. Despite this challenging period, the Rockets maintained a notable volume of long-range shots, averaging 31.9 attempts per game during the final season of their rebuild.
Ime Udoka’s Impact and Changing Dynamics
The arrival of head coach Ime Udoka marked a pivotal change for the Rockets, signaling the end of their rebuilding phase. Initially, in Udoka’s first season, the team saw a surge in three-point attempts, climbing to over 36 per game. However, the following season revealed a surprising decline. In 2024-25, the Rockets managed only 35.2 attempts per game, positioning them among the bottom ten teams in the league and ranking 21st overall.
Emergence of a New Strategy
As the season progressed, the Rockets began to experiment with new lineups, notably utilizing a dual-big setup featuring Steven Adams and Alperen Sengun. This strategic shift proved effective, particularly during the postseason, leading to newfound success for the team. The addition of one of the league’s top mid-range shooters further signaled a departure from their previous emphasis on three-point shooting.
The Rockets now find themselves at a crossroads, with their three-point attempts dipping to their lowest levels in over a decade. This evolution in strategy raises intriguing questions about the future trajectory of the franchise and its adaptation to the ever-changing landscape of the NBA.
