5 Critical Revelations from Houston Rockets' Training Camp
Talk about ending training camp with a bang. That's exactly what the Houston Rockets have done.
A few former members of the Oklahoma City Thunder will now call Houston home, with James Harden being the primary focus of the recent trade.
There were other things that were noteworthy, but they'll be completely overshadowed by the acquisition of one of the NBA's most famous beards.
While everything is still somewhat fresh in mind, let's take one final look back.
5. Cole Aldrich's Size Will Be Beneficial
1 of 5Cole Aldrich's opportunities were limited during his first two seasons in Oklahoma City. Sitting behind Kendrick Perkins, Serge Ibaka and Nazr Mohammed had a lot to do with that.
Patrick Patterson and Terrence Jones are capable of moving over and playing a little center when Omer Asik goes to the bench.
At 6'11" and 240 pounds, Aldrich provides legit size and a shot-blocking presence if the Rockets choose not to go small. He may have a good chance at improving on his career average of 7.1 minutes per game.
4. Royce White's Transportation Situation
2 of 5We learned of Royce White's circumstances during training camp. The agreement he reached with the Rockets on riding the bus to some games was revealed and put into place.
This isn't news that's normally associated with a team's first-round draft pick. Hopefully things go as smooth as possible for both parties and he is able to have a great career.
3. Terrence Jones Will Make Some Nice Contributions
3 of 5The rookie from Kentucky is gradually carving out a nice reputation for himself. The coaching staff is high on him and impressed with his ability and versatility.
This preseason he's filled up the stat sheet to the tune of 10.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game while only averaging 24.7 minutes.
It's not a lock that he will win the Rookie of the Year Award, but if he's healthy he should be in the running.
2. Omer Asik's Work Ethic Is Amazing
4 of 5Omer Asik worked the entire offseason and training camp trying to get his offense on par with his stellar defense. It may not be there yet, but it's not for a lack of effort.
Asik will be a testament to the fact that there's no substitute for good old fashioned hard work.
The league will be in for a surprise when they see him and will have to adjust their scouting reports accordingly.
1. A Deal Was in the Works
5 of 5The most critical revelation just happens to be the most recent one. James Harden is now a member of the Houston Rockets.
The reigning Sixth Man of the Year Award winner will have to relinquish that crown, as he will be the unquestioned starter at shooting guard once the season gets underway.
Harden is young, so he'll fit right in with Houston along with Cole Aldrich and Daequan Cook. They bring experienced youth and NBA Finals experience to a team looking to make an extended run in the playoffs.
Harden was a third fiddle in Oklahoma City behind Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. Now he has the opportunity to be the face of a team and deflect some of the intense spotlight that would otherwise be solely focused on Jeremy Lin.
This should help both players going forward.
