Who's Next? Which Houston Rockets Players are Set to Improve in 2023-24?

Behind the addition of new veterans, which Houston Rockets players are set to improve in 2023-24?

With one of the youngest teams in the NBA, the Houston Rockets has brought in veteran leadership that will be a strong factor for the 2023-24 season.

The additions of Fred VanVleet, Dillon Brooks, and many others will be vital for a playoff run. Bringing in Jeff Green from last year's Denver Nuggets championship team will bring a winning pedigree to Houston.

Behind the addition of new veterans, which Houston Rockets players are set to improve in 2023-24? / Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The only reservation for coach Ime Udoka will be the minutes spread. With so much viable talent in the rotation, equitably dispersing the minutes will be a challenge for the first-year head coach.

Of the players who are on track to make the most significant leap is NBA sophomore Jabari Smith Jr. The forward averaged 12.8 points and 7.2 rebounds last season, and with his spectacular performance in the Summer League, Smith looks ready for a big improvement. 

Unlike guards in the lineup, Smith will not be fighting for minutes as much with aging veterans, with him and Tari Eason standing as the only starting-worthy power forwards on the roster.

Another young player who has a chance to find his way into the spotlight this season is Green. No matter how many minutes are subtracted from the guards, Green's ability to score will keep him in the starting lineup, and with the addition of VanVleet, Green's efficiency is bound to improve from the 41.6% shooting from the field. 

The Rockets are 2-0 through the first five preseason games. So far, it appears that the roster moves general manager Rafael Stone made will help the franchise have a successful start to phase II of their rebuilding project.