4 Shocking Rockets starting 5s that could be reality by 2026

2. Rockets land star from the Big Easy

C:  Jabari Smith Jr. 

PF: Zion Williamson 

SF: Tari Eason 

SG: Reed Sheppard

PG: Amen Thompson 

If you’re an Amen guy, you’ve got him back here. By contrast, the Sengun fans are weeping. 

Yet, even more general Rockets fans may have reservations about Smith Jr. at the 5. With his slight frame, he’s likely to struggle as a primary rim protector. Luckily, he’ll have Eason and Thompson protecting the rim from the weak side and gobbling up rebounds to compensate. 

For this lineup to work offensively, more three-point volume from Williamson would be optimal. Still, we think it works. The lineup has 4-out spacing around Thompson. Assuming Sheppard develops as expected, his elite three-point gravity should compensate for the spacing limitations between him and Williamson. 

Otherwise, Williamson will be the highest-volume scorer here. This should be a strong group defensively with enough offense to contend if everything goes according to plan.