What we have Learned from the Houston Rockets' Preseason Games

The Houston Rockets’ preseason has provided a strong influx of confidence as we approach the 2026–27 NBA regular season. After playing the Dallas Mavericks in two consecutive games, the franchise looks more polished than it did during last year’s 52-win run, and the expectations are trending upward.

When Houston struggled in execution last season, it was often due to a lack of elite perimeter threats who could orchestrate from the top of the key. VanVleet seems to be the fix to the problem.

Opposing guards cannot duck under screens against VanVleet without paying a price. Pulling defenses out beyond the arc opens up the paint for Alperen Şengün’s low-post footwork and creates immediate driving lanes for Amen Thompson. VanVleet logged 7 assists to just 1 turnover in his return. His ability to make quick, decisive reads in pick-and-roll action keeps the ball moving cleanly.

Rather than settling for contested mid-range looks late in the clock, the offense is generating higher-quality kick-out catch-and-shoot opportunities. Jabari Smith Jr. and the secondary unit are benefiting directly from cleaner sightlines around the arc. The spacing allows Houston to run high-low actions through Şengün without defenders digging down from the wing with impunity.

The trickle-down effect of VanVleet's deep range, alongside offseason additions and internal development, has given Houston a much crisper perimeter dynamic overall. Rather than settling for contested mid-range looks late in the clock, the offense is generating higher-quality kick-out catch-and-shoot opportunities. Jabari Smith Jr. and the secondary unit are benefiting directly from cleaner sightlines around the arc. The upgraded spacing allows Houston to run high-low actions through Şengün without defenders digging down from the wing with impunity.

Houston’s secondary unit also looks outstanding. The secondary unit provides a menacing, high-energy group capable of completely altering the tempo of a game. Anchored by relentless forward Tari Eason alongside backcourt and wing depth like Marcus Smart and Reed Sheppard, the bench brings instant defensive disruption and chaotic pressure.

The bench also provides interior muscle and screen-setting from Steven Adams, as he is more than able to dominate the paint. This second unit suffocates opposing reserves, forces turnovers, and is more than able to maintain, if not extend, the lead.

The Rockets will face the Mavericks in their first two games of the NBA regular season, giving them an amazing opportunity to come out of the gates with a 2-0 record. They will be heavy favorites in both games, and winning both game would really get the wheels turning.

Will the Rockets be able to compete with the powerhouses of the Western Conference?