2 Rockets who have underperformed, 2 that have been useless

The Houston Rockets have been better than anyone would have imagined thus far, as they currently sit fourth in the Western Conference with a 6-3 record. The Rockets are currently riding a six-game winning streak and have secured victories over legitimate contenders, such as the Sacramento Kings, Los Angeles Lakers, and Denver Nuggets, to name a few.

Sure, the Rockets’ teams haven’t quite been at full strength, but neither have the Rockets, as they just got Tari Eason back and Amen Thompson has been out for an extended period of time. Ime Udoka has held players accountable and has ensured defensive effort, which has catapulted the Rockets from 29th in defensive efficiency in 2022-23 to sixth in defensive efficiency this season.

Many have Udoka in the early running for the Coach of the Year award and Rockets center Alperen Sengun is viewed as a legitimate All-Star and candidate for Most Improved Player this season.

Fans are excited and basketball observers have taken notice of the Rockets’ success. But it hasn’t all been starry skies for the Rockets, as they’ve had dismal play from several players that were expected to be significantly better than what we’ve seen thus far.

Let’s take a look at a few players who have underperformed, in addition to a few who have been downright useless for the team.