Rockets 2023-2024 Season Preview: Is Boban Marjanovic A Hidden Gem?

Buried at the end of the bench, will the Houston Rockets find hidden gems in Darius Days, Trevor Hudgins and Boban Marjanovic next season?

HOUSTON — The Houston Rockets underwent a significant overhaul since the end of last season. The changes started when Ime Udoka replaced Stephen Silas as head coach. Following the hiring of Udoka, the Rockets made several changes to their roster. 

But when it comes to players buried at the end of the bench, will the changes lead to Darius Days, Trevor Hudgins and Boban Marjanovic finding their way into the Rockets' rotation for the 2023-24 campaign?

Days and Hudgins spent most of last season playing for the Rockets' G League affiliate team, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. Unless injuries become a significant problem, Days and Hudgins could spend their sophomore campaigns in the G League. 

But whenever an opportunity presents itself, Days and Hudgins will be able to provide the Rockets with a spark off the bench. 

Hudgins displayed his potential during Houston's 5-1 run during the 2023 Las Vegas Summer League tournament. He averaged 14.5 points on 38.2 percent shooting from behind the arc and 6.5 assists.

Finding a rotational spot for Days and Hudgins will be an uphill battle. But Marjanovic is the best candidate to receive additional minutes when compared to the previous season.

The Rockets re-signed Marjanovic to a one-year deal, and general manager Rafael Stone believes the 7-foot-4 big man could have an impact on Houston's success. Marjanovic averaged 3.3 points and 1.9 rebounds in 31 games played during the 2022-23 season. 

"First and foremost, Boban is a really good basketball player," Stone said. "He does what he does at a truly elite level. He has always been a great rebounder on both ends. He is a true rim presence on both ends. And from that perspective, he gives us a change of pace. 

"It is a long NBA season. Players go down. Players will get hurt. We just want to make sure we have a well-rounded team."