We're already starting to get a glimpse of the future. These guys play well together...good chemistry. Though I've advocated a longer "3", I'm becoming more and more convinced that they should ALL start. Lots of versatility...We could be set for a long time.
I certainly think it's worth trying in the short term this season and next year, barring the Rockets drafting a stud PG or SF in the draft. Anything that gets Christopher more minutes right now is a good thing, and I think you need to see what you have in all three guys ultimately as soon as you reasonably can. That being said, long-term, I think you want more length out of your starting 3 than those guys. Given that all three are physically similar and have similar games, I think one of them is ultimately destined for the bench. But I'd love to see them thrive together and prove me wrong.
Silas would never. I’m certainly hoping to see more of this lineup as the season ends, but it seems like Silas would prefer to have Gordon and Mathews in at SF. I was wondering the other day if we got unlucky ping pong balls what an Ivey, Green, Porter lineup could do if they all were willing to share the ball. A little redundant I know, but think about the possibilities offensively. That said, I’ve been contemplating this particular lineup for some time now. If KPJ is actually 6’6 with a 6’10 wingspan why not try it? It all hinges on whether or not he can defend that position and what you have at PF and center. Having a PG, SG, and SF on the floor at the same time that can all initiate the offense and break down defenses while also being able to play off the ball would be fun to watch. Like a new age Run TMC with Tim Hardaway, Mitch Richmond, and Chris Mullin. Not a great comparison I know, but 3 scorers at those positions. It looked good in the 1st half and also when Nix subbed in for Josh. Both Nix and Josh have really good size at PG and any combination of KPJ, Jalen, Josh, and Daishen should be able to switch seamlessly on the perimeter especially as Jalen gets stronger.
Bingo. Nix being a true point guard AND also being 6’5 225 pounds is what could really make this go. Josh could then be the number 1 guard off the bench and play multiple positions. Add Sengun, Jabari or Chet and we might have a nice little core.
I liked how Nix looked last night vs Heat I believe the Rockets are set with: Porter jr / JC / Nix Green / Mathews .............../ Tate / Kenyon Wood / ............... Sengun / Garuba Hoping those two fill in the blanks can be Jabari Smith and Patrick Baldwin Jabari Smith could be a star for years playing the 3, 4 and 5 PLEASE NO MORE 6'5" AND UNDER DRAFT PICKS, PLEASE LORD Finally a team with height Porter Jr 6'5" Jalen Green 6'5" Jabari Smith 6'11" Wood 6'9" ..........Patrick Baldwin 6'9" Sengun 6'9" A version of what Cavs are building
I think the Rockets have some very talented but still very raw young talent. Essentially even though I think many of the Rockets youth group will have substantial NBA careers, I fully expect many of them to thrive elsewhere on other teams. Hopefully the Rockets pick the right or best guys. I know a lot of guys thrive in the ideal situation, so the Rockets won’t present the best opportunity for every player on their team. Nix, Christopher, Porter, Green, etc. all seem to extremely talented, but some will most likely be moved via trade or free agency.
You see Wood as a fixture of this team's future core? I just don't see it, personally. On top of his age, I just think his defense makes him a huge liability on a team that's struggling mightily on that end. And offensively, his inability to set picks and move the ball are detrimental as well. If you have Sengun and add a Chet or Jabari in the draft, I have to think Wood's days as a Rocket are numbered.
It's funny you mention Run TMC...thought about those guys when I posted. One other thing about Josh, and I've said it before, but bears repeating here...I see him as ending up around 6'6" ish 225-228 lbs before all is said and done. LOVE that versatility/interchangeability.
Right now their contracts are secured, once their contracts are up, it is not as clear to where they might go. If they sign a friendly contract, they might even stay together but throw in Alperen!!
I don't disagree with you, but I've noticed Wood as being more of a team player lately. He is under contract next season as well so his Go-Go-Gadget-Arms can still be of use as a Roll Man in PnR, 3-pt shooter to space the floor, and long wing span to help as a help defender. I have no doubt that Evan Mobley looks better defensively while having the long wing spans of Jarrett Allen and L Markkanen next to him and Okoro on the perimeter. Now that Allen broke his finger, we shall see how Mobley does as center with less wing span next to him over several games. Wrestling the big bears of the league over a period of weeks. Wood would look much better with a mobile Chet or Jabari or even Banchero next to him and vice-versa. Chet, Jabari or Banchero stand to have greater success early with Wood knowing the offense and defense. As we saw Jalen Green take time to see the NBA game slow down.... Wood might serve well to help the new guy transition to the NBA. Wood can be traded early next season just as easy as this off season. Just my humble opinion. Just a date does not mean certain marriage.....just because we start next season with Wood on the roster does not mean we (the Rockets) are married to him long term. Though it is an option.
I know the Rockets are focusing on developing KPJ as a point guard...but he's a scorer....and he has shown flashes of being a very talented scorer. I think they should keep him as a scorer...and he can develop his passing game as he becomes more of an offensive threat.
Obviously I'd LOVE it if Josh continues to grow, but most guys don't continue to grow after they join the NBA. It happens. But it's certainly not something you can count on. I just think his 6'9 wingspan and an Eric Gordon like frame means it's okay if he doesn't keep growing.
We definitely need length and athleticism at the 3-5, but these guys on the court together....I wonder what the +/- is for the season on this group when all are out there. They didn't get many minutes, but the chemistry/synergy looked great.