The Houston Rockets have the potential to field one of the tallest lineups in NBA history, a possibility that has intrigued fans and analysts alike. While this may not be the traditional starting five, the idea of playing an exceptionally tall unit could become a reality for the team.
According to ESPN’s Michael C. Wright, the Rockets could potentially assemble a lineup that includes five players: 6-foot-7 Amen Thompson, 6-foot-10 Jabari Smith Jr., and three towering 6-foot-11 players—Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, and Steven Adams. This unique configuration could make the Rockets one of the biggest teams to ever step onto the court, as noted by head coach Ime Udoka.
The opportunity to explore this lineup arises partly due to the absence of Fred VanVleet for the season, which has affected the team’s original plans. With the veteran guard off the table, the Rockets could rely on second-year player Reed Sheppard to rise to the occasion. If Sheppard performs well, he is likely to see significant playing time.
Notably, even with a lineup emphasizing height, the Rockets have the capability to maintain effective playmaking. Thompson and Sengun both possess point guard skills, adding versatility to the squad. Furthermore, allowing a player of Kevin Durant’s caliber to take charge of the offense can only enhance the team’s attacking efficiency.
As the Rockets prepare to face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night for their season opener, fans will be eager to see if this towering lineup makes an appearance right from the start. The combination of size and skill could be a formidable asset for Houston this season, bringing a new layer of excitement to their game.