Houston signals a shift toward depth and flexibility as Capela signs on behind Sengun and Adams. Sengun’s move to power forward last season fueled a successful double-big look with Adams, and Capela’s arrival gives Houston a veteran rebounder and rim protector to backstop the lineup. The plan hinges on Sengun’s continued floor-spacing improvement and Udoka’s emphasis on defense and physicality, with Adams’ workload likely to be managed down the stretch.

Capela’s return reopens a dynamic center rotation that could be even more versatile than the previous season, potentially letting Houston deploy two bigs at once while preserving rest for the playoff push. The duo’s presence also elevates the Rockets’ rebounding and interior defense while offering insurance against injuries, setting the stage for a playoff-contending, strategically flexible squad.