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Shepard evolved successfully, Rockets tried the new five major lineups, substitute double towers 18+7, Amen developed new skills

6:42pm, 7 October 2025【Basketball】

Van Vleet was injured and Durant did not play. The Rockets' first game of the preseason was very variable. The frequent large-scale operations in the summer made the team a favorite to win the championship. There are many problems that need to be solved in the preseason of Uduka. There are many players available for the No. 1 position and the combination of signing and rotation, and there are also happiness and troubles. The starting lineup, Udu, is more routine. Currently, there is no second choice except Shepard, the first choice in the No. 1 position. As a rookie with a high pick last season, it should also be played.

Shepard made obvious progress in this game. Uduka tailored the lineup for him, with the second team and the double towers on the court at the same time, making up for his defensive problems. Shepard's play has changed a lot, whether it is passing or taking the outside, without hesitation, and quickly entered the inside after pick-and-roll, causing damage. On the defensive end, Shepard was still targeted for confrontation and was hit by the roster continuously, but shooting and sorting offense are a qualified starting point guard. If Durant can play, his advantages can be fully utilized.

Shepard was the Rockets' best player on the outside, scoring 10 points, 2 rebounds and 1 assist. This is just his first game of starting and it takes a certain amount of trust to strive to improve defense, truly integrate into the team's tactical system, and evolve successfully. The Rockets' five major attempts in this game also prove that Amen Thompson cannot play in the first position. He is more suitable for counterattack, empty cut and Shepard to form a one-off and one-defense partner. Substitutes will be accompanied by Davidson and Holiday Jr. to form the backcourt.

Shin Kyung brought his performance in the European Cup back to the Rockets, played only halftime, and scored comprehensive data of 19 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists. His offense was more lethal, and he made all 7 free throws. Among the five major lineups, more singles were held at the top of the arc to organize the offense. The Rockets do not have a good No. 1 position in the new season, so Shin Kyung needs to develop in Jokic's direction. Adams and Capela, two defensive centers, scored 10 points and 8 points and 5 rebounds respectively in this game, and the center was well reserved.

Compared to relying solely on the main players last season, the Rockets' substitutes broke out in this game. New aid Okoji scored 8 points and 3 rebounds. Adams' offense ended and upgraded, and scored a total of 18 points and 7 rebounds with Capela. After signing Capela, the Rockets actually encountered some doubts. At present, Uduka is very targeted. The double tower combination will become the main component of the Rockets' tactics in the new season, and the configuration of three centers is just right. Ethan, who has not renewed his contract, scored 12 points and 6 rebounds, which is still very stable.

Amen Thompson's positioning is not clear in this game. He has played both No. 1 and No. 3 positions. He needs to adapt to a new role. In this game, he scored 11 points and 3 rebounds, which is average. The bigger surprise is that he has developed a new skill, making 1 of 2 three-pointers, and there is also a long-distance mid-range shot that crosses the three-point line. The long-range shot ability has been upgraded a lot. The Rockets have tested the five major lineups and have high requirements for outside players. After all, Adams and Capela do not have the ability to make three-pointers and need other players to help them open up space.

Mini-game recommendations:1941 Frozen Front