Rockets Media Member: Udoka’s Tactical Style Will Remain Unchanged, VanVleet’s Return Will Have Major Impact

In a recent podcast episode, Houston Rockets media member Jackson Gatlin shared his outlook on the team’s prospects for the new season. Gatlin noted that although Ime Udoka will face challenges on offense, the team’s overall offensive performance is expected to become smoother. This is not because Udoka will insist on making major tactical changes, but mainly because the team’s core player Fred VanVleet is set to return, and his importance is self-evident. During the significant amount of time VanVleet missed last season, the Rockets’ system experienced serious disruption.

Gatlin further analyzed that in addition to VanVleet’s return, the Rockets have also added veteran Marcus Smart. Both experienced players are highly skilled at organizing and positioning on the court. They understand how to coordinate offense and defense and can effectively direct the team’s operations. They have also shown strong communication abilities on defense and are excellent on-ball defenders. The addition of these two players alone could significantly change the Rockets’ offensive style.

Looking back at VanVleet’s performance, he was unable to play a full season last year due to injury. In the 2024-25 regular season, he appeared in 60 games, averaging 35.2 minutes per game, 14.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.6 steals. Although his field-goal percentage was only 37.8%, his three-point percentage was 34.5%. In the playoffs, VanVleet’s performance improved further, as he averaged 40 minutes per game over seven contests, recording 18.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.4 assists, while shooting 43.0% from the field and an impressive 43.5% from three-point range. All of this makes his return a major positive development for the Rockets.