Udoka stresses size and length in Houston’s lineups, pushing a multi-positional approach that leans into defense and transition. Tate’s and Finney-Smith’s recoveries shape opening-night rotations, with Udoka balancing a crowded wing group while leveraging swap-ready defenses and fast-paced sets to maximize the team’s growth.

Udoka finishes second in vote for best motivator and second in defensive schemes, underscoring his rising influence in Houston’s culture and defense.

Udoka’s leadership is central to integrating a youthful core with veteran pieces, aiming for a fast, defensive system that translates raw potential into consistent fantasy-friendly production.

<p>Udoka wants Capela as a traditional center and a keystone in a double-big front alongside Şengün, with a fighting mentality that prioritizes defense and toughness. The aim is to mold a cohesive, physical identity that complements the Rockets’ athletic young core.</p><p>Capela’s adaptation to Udoka’s style is a litmus test for the team’s early-season chemistry and fantasy upside across the roster, particularly in interior battles and late-game execution.</p>

Udoka underscores Thompson’s expanded duties as part of a broader developmental arc, balancing scoring, defense, and playmaking. His patient, data-driven approach aims to maximize the young core’s ceiling and align the roster around a flexible, multi-positional system.