30 in 30: Do the Houston Rockets have a foundational core in place?

How good can the Houston Rockets’ young core be?

Objectively speaking, the Houston Rockets have an exciting young core. Jalen Green has the chance to be one of the most explosive scorers in the league. And he showed that at times throughout his rookie season last year, averaging 17 points per game.

If Green can hit his potential, he’s the superstar that is going to change the fortune for the Rockets. But that’s a big “if” and this season should be telling. Additionally, Kevin Porter Jr. is an intriguing prospect as well who was third in team scoring (16 PPG) behind Christian Wood (who is no longer with the team) and Green.

He’s another player that, if signed to a long-term deal, could end up reshaping this team’s future. And, lastly, you have Jabari Smith, who is the rookie for this year.

Smith had an up-and-down showing in Summer League but there was a case to be made that he should’ve been the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft over Paolo Banchero.

Nevertheless, he’ll have an opportunity to let his silky-smooth game do the talking this season.

And if it all comes together for the Rockets’ young core, and the front office continues to build around it, this is a team that could quickly move up the Western Conference hierarchy.