When training camps for the 2021-22 season begin in late September, every NBA team will have decisions to make. For example, the final roster spots are frequently debated, since teams can bring up to 20 players to camp but must reduce that number to 17 or less (up to 15 standard contracts and two two-way deals) by the start of the regular season.
With the rebuilding Houston Rockets, though, there are more bigger-picture decisions to be made in camp than for most teams. For starters, coming off a year with the NBA’s worst record, it’s not as if they have a defined starting lineup. Clearly, the development of young players is a priority for general manager Rafael Stone and head coach Stephen Silas.
Yet, there are also accomplished veterans on the roster like John Wall and Eric Gordon who deserve playing time. In addition, the Rockets can point to the fact that up until Christian Wood’s severe ankle sprain last season, they had a winning record and were playing good basketball — even after the forced departure of superstar guard James Harden.
Should they fall out of playoff contention during the 2021-22 season, the Rockets are likely to eventually give more minutes to younger players, no matter the results. That point is unlikely to arrive by the Oct. 20 opening game, though. Silas and Stone are likely to at least begin the season by focusing on what gives them the best chance to win.
Among bigger names, Wall and Wood are almost certain to start, assuming health. They’re expected to be Houston’s best players next season. It would also be a major upset if 21-year-old guard Kevin Porter Jr. doesn’t start, since he’s entering his third NBA season and is at a point in his development cycle where prospects tend to show more significant growth. The Rockets need to find out what they have with him.
Beyond those three, Silas and Stone will balance various factors such as on-court philosophies, rotation fits, the role of veteran leadership, and what’s best for the development of the 2021 class of first-round rookies (Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, Usman Garuba, and Josh Christopher). Here’s a look at some of the potential debates at training camp.
