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

4. A homegrown dynasty?

C:   Alperen Sengun

PF: Jabari Smith Jr. 

SF: Amen Thompson 

SG: Jalen Green 

PG: Reed Sheppard 

Consider this the homegrown lineup. The Rockets don’t make any blockbuster deals - they keep “their guys”. 

For that to happen, they’ll likely need some players to take discount deals. Perhaps someone’s value is depreciated via an injury, or a late breakout. 

On the latter score, we’re looking at Jalen Green. You’ve surely noticed that this is the first lineup including him. His first three seasons in the league have left us dubious about his potential, but we’re not out on him yet. 

We’re not out on Cam Whitmore, either. Who knows? He could be starting by 2026. Still, we’re looking at a team with a “core 7” and there are 5 players in a starting lineup. That’s what makes the future so exciting: 

And scary.