Rockets Analyst: Udoka May Not Change, While VanVleet's Return Could Bring Significant Transformation_Offense_Gatlin_Season

In the latest episode of his podcast, Houston Rockets media personality Jackson Gatlin shared his thoughts on the team's upcoming new season.

Gatlin mentioned that regarding the challenges Ime Udoka faces on the offensive end, he expects the team's overall performance to be noticeably smoother this season. This does not mean Udoka himself will make major tactical adjustments, which to some extent also reflects that he still has issues with offensive organization. However, the more important factor is that Fred VanVleet will return to the lineup. It can be said that VanVleet's importance within the Rockets' overall system is sometimes almost unbelievable. During his absence last season, multiple parts of the team nearly lost their previous structure.

Gatlin continued his analysis, saying that VanVleet's return will not only strengthen the team, but the Rockets have also brought in Marcus Smart. Both veterans have extensive game experience, understand the importance of offensive organization and proper positioning on the court, and can effectively maintain balance during games. They can not only direct the defense but also communicate closely on the defensive end, and both are outstanding defenders against ball handlers. The addition of these two players alone will significantly improve the Rockets' performance on offense.

Last season, VanVleet, who missed time due to injury, appeared in 60 games during the 2024-25 NBA regular season, averaging 35.2 minutes per game and recording 14.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks, while averaging 1.4 turnovers and 2.3 fouls per game. He shot 37.8% from the field, 34.5% from three-point range, and 81.0% from the free-throw line. In the playoffs, VanVleet appeared in 7 games, averaged 40 minutes per game, increased his scoring average to 18.7 points, and added 4.1 rebounds and 4.4 assists. His performance was even more impressive, with field goal and three-point shooting percentages reaching 43.0% and 43.5% respectively, while his free-throw percentage was 100%.