Houston’s preseason sprint has evolved into a real-season rehearsal, with the Rockets 2-0 and eyeing dress-rehearsal tuneups against New Orleans and Atlanta. The roster is experimenting with rotations, minute tallies, and a more sophisticated offensive scheme as Udoka moves beyond a “semi-vanilla” start.

Key themes: Durant and Finney-Smith add floor-spreading gravity that should unlock corner looks for Smith, Şengün, and Thompson, while the team debates a potential double-big look with Steven Adams. Corner 3s and pace are being prioritized, and the defense will be tested to confirm last season’s identity as one of the league’s sturdiest units.