Houston Rockets vs. Orlando Magic: 5 Questions Ahead of Season Opener

The Orlando Magic hosts the Houston Rockets tonight. Here are five questions before tipoff.

ORLANDO - The Orlando Magic and Houston Rockets are getting ready to go for Game 1 of the regular season tonight at Amway Center.

In preparation for the game, we spoke with Inside The Rockets editor Coty Davis to learn more about the Magic's first opponent of the season.

1. The Rockets made some splashy free-agent acquisitions this offseason. What’s the most important one?

I would have to say Fred VanVleet. It's no secret that the Rockets needed to add veteran leadership to their locker room, and I think VanVleet has already left an impact on Houston's young players. Before leaving for Lake Charles, VanVleet gifted each one of his teammates the book, "Chop Wood Carry Water: How to Fall in Love with the Process of Becoming Great.” His goal was to illustrate that becoming great takes time. And everyone must enjoy the process they are on.

2. Which matchup are you most looking forward to for the game? 

Of course, Paolo Banchero vs. Jabari Smith Jr. These two players will be linked for eternity, given the events that transpired ahead of the 2022 NBA Draft. Plus, the last time Smith played in Orlando, he was coming off a major sickness, which led to a horrific performance of three points on 1-of-4 shooting and one rebound. I'm sure Smith is anxious to put on a show against Banchero and the Magic.

3. The Rockets will be without Tari Eason for the game. How much of a loss is that for Houston?

The loss of Eason is a significant blow. He came into training camp as the team's projected sixth man. And given the defensive emphasis under coach Ime Udoka, Eason would have been great to help carry out his philosophy. However, the one thing I value most about this roster is the depth. The combination of Jeff Green and Jae'Sean Tate would be enough to help fill Eason's vacancy.

4. If the Rockets win on Wednesday, what will be the reason why?

Their defense. Even with the additions of Udoka, VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, I still do not believe that people see the Rockets as a defensive threat. But after finishing the preseason with the league's second-best defense, there will be plenty of nights where Houston could hold their opponents under their scoring average. And I think it will start Wednesday night against the Magic.

5. What’s your prediction for the game?

Udoka captures his first win as coach of the Rockets with a 115-105 victory over the Magic. Jabari Smith Jr. career-high 35 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks.