Shocking Ime Udoka development has completely flipped the Rockets series

Ime Udoka has led the Rockets to make some major adjustments in their last 2 wins which could carry over into the rest of the series. In their Game 5 win, the Rockets took a combined 40 3pt attempts, which is higher than usual. Even looking back at Game 2, the only game with Kevin Durant available, the Rockets took only 29 overall 3s.

The Rockets have found a new offensive formula

Udoka’s revamped offense provided a breath of fresh air after the first three games of this series. This is a series where coaching is key, and good coaching can be extremely beneficial for the players. Letting the players shoot with freedom has lessened the burden of expectations on them.

Udoka’s coaching turnaround has helped the Rockets play with more confidence. Jabari Smith Jr. looks like a leader when he is on the court; his communication with teammates helps everyone play better together. This can also be seen by how Alperen Sengun has been sharing the ball; 8 assists in Game 5 helped keep everyone involved. 

Basketball is a game that lives in the moment, and this series has painted multiple pictures. Udoka is capable of changing the perception that fans have of him, but is it too late? There are plenty of soundbites in this series alone showing how Udoka has chosen to critique his players. Is that the mindset this team wants looking towards the future?

Udoka still has room for improvement

Criticism is not always a bad thing; when done right, it is essential to the development of anyone when doing something. This approach, however, has provided questionable responses to where the best path forward seems a mystery. While we may see changes now, is that going to carry over? Or is this series getting dragged on to the point where the inevitable is getting delayed?

While the change in tone is nice, it still needs to be worked on. While the Rockets are taking more 3’s, the offense still found itself going 14/40 (35%). That’s not the best, but the team was very fortunate to have a feel-out game in this regard while still coming away with a win. Game 6 will show just how far Udoka is willing to go to improve the effectiveness of the rotation.

Many Rockets fans were in despair after falling behind 3-0 in the series, but Udoka’s adjustments and Houston’s improvements have brought it back to a 3-2 deficit. This feels much more manageable, especially with the Rockets having all the momentum.

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