The Houston Rockets continue their active offseason with another defensive addition.
The Rockets acquired Kevin Durant in a trade package that sent Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks to Phoenix.
Houston also retained key contributors through re-signments such as Stephen Adams, Fred Vanvriet and Jabari Smith Jr.
And recently, the Rockets signed a one-year, $3.1 million contract with guard Josh O’Cogee, further strengthening their perimeter defense.
The 26-year-old guard split between Phoenix and Charlotte last season, averaging 7.1 points, 2.8 rebounds and 0.8 steals in total games with averaging 7.1 points, 2.8 rebounds and 0.8 steals.
Okogie averaged 1.2 steals per game, ranking fourth in steel per 36 minutes among players who played in more than 40 games last season.
His ability to disrupt opposing crimes is consistent with Houston’s defensive approach. The Rockets finished among the league’s top defensive units last season, establishing their identity through boundary pressure and internal protection.
The addition of Okogie reinforces its philosophy while providing the depth behind established rotation players.
His defensive versatility allows him to switch to multiple positions, giving him flexibility in manager Ime Udoka’s lineup.
Rockets supporters expressed mixed feelings about the addition focused on another defense. “The best defense in the NBA,” one fan wrote, praised the organization’s continued emphasis at the end of the courthouse.
“They are very equipped to win in this modern NBA,” another noted, highlighting how defensive identities can translate into successful championships in today’s league environment.
However, questions have arisen about the offensive balance and the depth of scoring. “Why aren’t they trying to get another scorer,” one fan questioned, suggesting that the roster doesn’t have enough offensive firepower beyond Durant.
“How many defensive one team board has?” another team wrote, expressing concerns about location redundancy rather than addressing the needs of other rosters through free agency.
The defensive approach takes the responsibility of Kevin Durant’s serious scoring on his shoulder. Some fans are worried about the offensive load that the overall load of future Hall of Fame must be carried along with limited complementary scorers.
“How much help does KD need?” one account posted a rather typical comment with feedback about Durant, who usually had strong defensive powers around him.
“KD should again average 30 to make this offense,” another fan wrote, highlighting concerns about Durant’s scoring burden in his senior career stage.
The Rockets’ strategy appears to focus on his hopes of delivering major offensive production while protecting Durant through the defence of the elite.
Houston’s offseason will position them as legal candidates for next season. The combination of veteran leadership, defensive identity and Durant’s scoring ability create an attractive foundation for playoff success.
Amen Thompson’s continued development, along with the established veteran core, can also provide additional offensive upside-downs.
His growth trajectory determines whether Rocket can balance their defensive excellence and ample scoring punches for a deep playoff run.