Rockets' secret weapon could come from a surprising aspect of their lineup

The Houston Rockets are going to prioritize size this year. If that wasn't clear, the latest reports that Kevin Durant will play the 2 confirm it.

He'll be playing alongside Amen Thompson in the starting lineup. That's a big backcourt:

It might be the biggest in NBA history.

Rockets set to revolutionize the guard positions

It's difficult to confirm with research. NBA history is vast, and the query of "tallest backcourt ever" may be a little too broad.

One common theme is the 1999 Mavericks. They started Hubert Davis (6'5") and Michael Finley (6'7"). That's a tall backcourt:

But the Rockets' new duo would cast a shadow on them.

Thompson is 6'7", and Durant is 6'11". That could be a 5 and 4 for plenty of NBA teams. It feels plausible to claim that the Rockets will be starting the biggest backcourt in NBA history. They'll be playing a bold, unique brand of basketball:

Will it work?

Rockets' starting backcourt makes perfect sense

Why not?

There are concerns about Thompson's ability to run point. Can he minimize his turnovers enough to be effective at the position? Will his lack of a jump shot hinder him?

As for Durant, he shouldn't have any functional limitations - on offense. He's always effectively been a 2 in a 4s body. If there any concerns about his ability, they'll be on the defensive end. It may be difficult for Durant to guard opposing 2s at his age and size.

That said, the mismatch will work both ways. The Rockets may face some obstacles with the NBA's largest backcourt, but they'll also find advantages. How many 2s can guard Durant? How easily will Thompson be able to bully his way to the basket?

Defensively, the same logic holds. Durant will be the nominal 2, but he can switch around. As for Thompson, he can guard anyone. He'll be a nightmare for opposing point guards.

Ultimately, that's basketball. The game is about creating mismatches. The Rockets will do that on both ends. The gamble is that their size will be an advantage more often than it isn't.

It's also indicative of how the league is trending. Small guards are generally unfashionable. Teams aren't going to the same extreme as the Rockets, but in a sense, 6'3" is the new 6'0". Luckily for the Rockets, 6'7" and 6'11" both comfortably clear that bar:

And they clear it by more than anyone else in the NBA.