Rockets’ Core Must Prove Itself | NBA News

The Houston Rockets are poised for a pivotal season as they aim to keep their core intact with Rafael Stone and Ime Udoka returning. After a rebuilding phase that showed promise, the team’s 52-30 record last year signals they’re not yet playoff contenders — and with a stacked Western Conference, breaking their 2020 playoff drought is non-negotiable. Udoka’s defensive system is in place, but depth remains their Achilles’ heel. If they don’t show real progress and make a postseason run, expect major changes at the top — including possible upheaval for Stone and Udoka. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8e5b56996e90200a