Houston Rockets: 5 Season-defining narratives to follow after splashy offseason

Two players expected to improve

Two players who have shown great promise going forward have been Alperen Sengun and Tari Eason. Both of them have an opportunity to make indelible impressions this season as they should be given plenty of opportunities to showcase their talent.

One of the most underrated centers in the NBA, Sengun is probably the player with the most upside on the roster. Many have compared Sengun to 2-time MVP Nikola Jokic and he has also been compared to Domantas Sabonis. He will be a player to keep an eye on as he is in line to have a breakout season. He is an unselfish player with great court vision which is where the Jokic comparisons come from.

Sengun’s passing skills make up for his lack of shooting but he should improve in that area in due time. At times last season, he didn’t appear to be comfortable taking that midrange jump shot as it appeared that he was still adjusting to the speed and quickness of the NBA. Eason was impressive during the two games he played in the NBA Summer League as he averaged 23 points, 9.5 rebounds, and three blocks.

It appears that he has putting in some serious work in the gym since the season ended and his game looks like it really has improved although it was only a Summer League game. He finished well around the basket and his handles appeared to be much more fluid. Coaches rave about his defensive potential as well.

Eason has the length and natural basketball instincts that can’t be taught and has the potential to become one of the better perimeter defenders in the league. He is capable of playing both forward positions and the Rockets must find a defined role for him because he is too talented not to be on the floor.