Jae’Sean Tate is sidelined in the preseason as he rehabs a right ankle impingement that required surgery, aiming for a Feb... wait, Oct. 21 season opener at Oklahoma City. He’s progressing with non-contact drills and believes he’s getting stronger, ready to contribute as a flexible defender and ball-miller in Houston’s wing-heavy rotations.

Across the roster, Finney-Smith shares a similar rehab path, and Ime Udoka notes they’re in the same recovery lane, with Tate perhaps edging ahead. The Rockets’ lineup emphasizes size and length, with Tate embracing a versatile role as they plan to deploy him wherever needed, including small-ball and on-ball responsibilities.

Houston’s rebuilding turn looks accelerated after a top seed run and a first‑round exit. Fred VanVleet’s ACL injury opens the door for Amen Thompson to deliver a true step forward in playmaking and scoring, while Kevin Durant, Dorian Finney‑Smith and Clint Capela bring veteran balance to a young, athletic core. Reed Sheppard should see real minutes, and Ime Udoka’s system could turn Houston into a formidable, fast-defensive group in 2025‑26.

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.