Dorian Finney-Smith’s arrival gives Houston a veteran perimeter defender and a trusted voice for Amen Thompson as he takes on more on-ball duties. The offseason included work with The Guard Whisperer to sharpen shot mechanics and mid-range confidence.

Thompson posted 14.1 ppg and earned all-defense honors last season, but his 3-point shooting lagged at 27.5%. With VanVleet sometimes out, he’ll handle more and need to prove range, aided by improved chemistry with Sengün and Smith and Udoka’s patient approach.