3 Young players the Houston Rockets should develop, 2 to give up on

Alperen Şengün can be a centerpiece for the Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets have the foundation to build one of the league's most dynamic frontcourts with Jabari Smtih Jr. and Alperen Şengün. The Turkish big man has impressed in his first two seasons with the Rockets, even taking a jump in year two.

His scoring average saw a significant increase, jumping up five points compared to his rookie year.
Şengün averaged 14.8 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists over the course of 75 appearances in 2022-23.

The 21-year-old has displayed an impressive sense of the game so far as well. He's been able to excel as a facilitator with the Rockets, which is an important skill to have as the roster continues to improve.

Big men with the ability to set up their teammates have become a sought-after breed in the league in its current form. Players like Nikola Jokic, Domantas Sabonis, and Al Horford have become great examples of how that skill can impact winning.

Jokic just led the Denver Nuggets to their first NBA Championship, Sabonis helped the Sacramento Kings snap a 16-year playoff drought, and Horford has been a staple in a successful Boston Celtics team ((except for those two seasons when he left).

Şengün has the potential to impact the Rockets in a similar way, as they look to take a jump in the next year or two.