Rockets' astounding offensive leap should inspire a permanent change

The Houston Rockets have had a somewhat up-and-down 2025-26 season. In terms of Net Rating, it seems they've improved dramatically over last year.

That will surprise some fans. There were concerning signs early. The Rockets' propensity to turn the ball over was problematic early. It seemed as if the Rockets might flounder without Fred VanVleet's steady hand.

Think again.

Rockets have made drastic improvements in 2025-26

In 2024-25, the Rockets' Net Rating was 4.6. This year, it's up to 11.5. That's not just an improvement - it's a quantum leap.

It's not hard to figure out why. The Rockets' half-court efficiency skyrocketed by replacing Jalen Green with Kevin Durant. Their 123.4 Offensive Rating is the best in the NBA, and last year's 114.9 mark ranked 12th.

Sure, the defense has slipped. Without Dillon Brooks at the point of attack, Amen Thompson has had less room to free lance. There have been issues on that end of the floor, but it's worth the trade-off to have the NBA's best offense.

It's been fun to watch. It also raises questions. In VanVleet's absence, Alperen Sengun has been operating as a point center. Reed Sheppard has emerged:

Do the Rockets need VanVleet?

Rockets should incorporate VanVleet next season

Frankly, it's not a simple question.

Sheppard's trajectory has arguably been the story of the Rockets' season. It's hard to view him as less than anything but a future star now. Moreover, it would be wise to keep the ball in Sengun's hands moving forward.

Even with those realities in mind, the Rockets should probably bring VanVleet back in 2026-27.

If Thompson turns it around as a ball-handler, we can revisit the conversation. For now, let's assume that he continues to struggle. In 2026-27, the Rockets could split point guard duties between Sengun, Sheppard and VanVleet.

That said, this should inspire a permanent stylistic change. It's time to decrease VanVleet's pick-and-roll usage. The way the Rockets have been running the offense this year is more dynamic, and it's showing in the numbers. Point Sengun should be here to stay.

I'm also getting ahead of myself. Above all else, we should all be enjoying this season. The Rockets have the best Offensive Rating in the NBA. They have the third-best Net Rating. This is a team with a real chance to win the NBA championship:

Last year, that simply wasn't true.