In the midst of discussions around Kevin Durant’s recent move from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets, another former Suns player, Josh Okogie, is quietly making waves in Houston. Okogie, who joined the Rockets after a stint with the Charlotte Hornets, has reunited with Durant, bringing a unique dynamic to the team’s roster.
This season, Okogie has started in 20 of the 26 games he has played, averaging 22 minutes on the court each night, marking his most significant playing time since the 2019-20 season. However, as the Rockets navigate a challenging start with a 17-9 record, just above the Suns in the Western Conference standings, Okogie has recently come under scrutiny from fans who view him as a potential liability on the team.
Social media has seen a surge of opinions blaming Okogie for the team’s struggles, with fans questioning his role in a lineup that boasts considerable talent, including Durant, Alperen Sengun, and Amen Thompson. Critics argue that if Okogie is expected to play a central role offensively, the team’s success may be limited, particularly given his history as a non-elite scorer.
Despite this criticism, it is essential to recognize Okogie’s strengths, particularly his defensive capabilities. His ability to guard top scorers effectively is often overshadowed by the offensive expectations placed upon him. With the presence of other strong defensive players like Durant, Okogie’s contributions may be undervalued.
Moreover, if he were still with the Suns, Okogie would likely have thrived alongside Dillon Brooks, providing crucial defensive support off the bench and potentially mitigating issues that arise when players overstep their roles. During his time with the Suns, Okogie was appreciated for his contributions; however, the team’s championship aspirations and need for a center ultimately led to his departure.
As the Rockets strive to meet high expectations this season, Okogie finds himself in a difficult position where he may become the scapegoat if the team does not perform as hoped. Nevertheless, his track record suggests he can add value in his role, and the hope remains that he will continue to showcase his defensive talents while finding ways to contribute positively to the Rockets’ success.