Bleacher Report ranked the Houston Rockets' young core second among NBA teams after a successful four-year rebuild. General Manager Rafael Stone earned recognition for draft expertise, selecting Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, Amen Thompson, and Reed Sheppard. The franchise acquired Eason and Sheppard through assets from the 2021 James Harden trade.
The organization extended contracts for Smith Jr. and Sengun, demonstrating commitment to their core players. Sengun established himself as a premier center with averages of 16.0 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. Thompson earned First-Team All-Defense honors during his second season.
The Thunder claimed the top ranking after their championship run. Four Rockets players contributed significantly to the team's 52-win campaign last season.
The organization extended contracts for Smith Jr. and Sengun, demonstrating commitment to their core players. Sengun established himself as a premier center with averages of 16.0 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. Thompson earned First-Team All-Defense honors during his second season.
The Thunder claimed the top ranking after their championship run. Four Rockets players contributed significantly to the team's 52-win campaign last season.
