4 Changes Rockets must make after disastrous start to 2023-24 season

1. Pick up the pace

The Rockets are currently 29th in offensive rating and 25th on the defensive end. Finishing near the bottom in both categories will certainly have Houston near the top of the lottery. Ime Udoka is known as a defensive-minded coach (subscription required). The Rockets do not have the best personnel, but fans should be hopeful improvements will come on that end as the season progresses.

Until then, they must find a way to win. If they are not defending, Houston has to outscore the opposition. That is impossible with bad halfcourt efficiency and ranking 29th in pace. The Rockets are a young and athletic team. They need to get out in transition and get easy buckets.

Udoka could be slowing things down to limit turnovers after the Rockets finished 29th last season. Well, the Warriors finished 30th and advanced to the second round of the playoffs. Houston needs to play to their strengths. Defense and half-court offense are not among them, so try to get out in transition and make things happen.

The Houston Rockets need to get on track quickly. They cannot afford to give away games in a difficult and crowded Western Conference. Can Ime Udoka right the ship or are the Rockets destined for a nervous lottery night? Stay tuned to find out.