Rockets Visit Chicago, Prepped to Run with the Bulls
Ola-Debut. Musical Chairs. The WOW Factor.
“It’s a new energy, a positive energy. It’s great to be a part of,” the newest Rocket, Victor Oladipo, said during his introductory press conference. And finally, tonight, Oladipo will make his debut for Houston, as the Rockets try and outrun the Bulls in Chicago. Victor is by far the most valuable piece Houston acquired in the James Harden trade. Although rumors persist about Oladipo’s desire to play in Miami, Victor’s in Houston, at least for this season. And he’s a free agent this summer, so he may depart elsewhere, after a short stint. However, Oladipo is one of the most like-able players in the league, and I could see him being a perfect fit with the Rockets. On Monday night, he gets his first chance to show Houston what he can do on the court.
The Rockets were shorthanded during their two-game trip in San Antonio. Houston only had nine available players for the first game, and even less, with only eight in the second. Oladipo’s debut will give the Rockets some needed firepower. As will the returning DeMarcus Cousins and Eric Gordon. Both didn’t play in San Antonio, and their presence allows Houston to creep closer to full strength. The squad is still without John Wall and Danuel House Jr.
It’s been a season of musical chairs for Houston’s roster. The Rockets have seemingly had a different starting lineup every game, but hopefully consistency will arise once the injury bug is ridden. And once they get those Wall and House return, this team has the potential to do more damage than most people think. The Rockets are a much deeper squad than the pundits imagine, especially is Oladipo fully buys in, and plays well alongside Wall. Vic won’t get a chance to play with John tonight, but he will get his first taste of pick and roll action with the other part of Houston’s WOW factor, Christian Wood. Houston takes on a young Bulls team led by Zach LaVine. Their point guard, Coby White is having a breakout year, and they also boast one of the best rookies in the league, in Patrick Williams. Nonetheless, the Rockets have the talent to beat to Bulls. It’s a matter of Oladipo gelling with his teammates, and truly becoming a part of that new energy.
Despite the departure of Harden, the Rockets have a big-three of their own. They may not be as potent as another big three in the league, but these three players have yet to play a game together. And they are: John Wall, Victor Oladipo, and Christian Wood. The WOW Factor. Also Houston’s best chance of winning lies in the hands of these three players. If these guys can stay healthy all season, and play up to their potential, the Rockets will be the West’s dark horse. We’ll have to wait a few days to see the trio in action. And the squad needs to avoid falling any any further in the standings. At 4-7, Houston will have twice as many losses as wins with a loss tonight. If they can pull off the victory, they’ll still only be two games under .500. It may not be the shiniest matchup, but tonight’s game is huge for the Rockets in determining the direction the squad will be taking, and potentially some of their players, this season. And tonight, after a bit of waiting time, we get our first look at Victor Oladipo, who, for this energetic Rockets team, could end up being the most important part.
United Center: Chicago, Illinois
Jersey Colors:
Houston Rockets (4-7): White
Chicago Bulls (5-8): Black “City Edition”
TV: 7 PM CT – AT&T Sportsnet SW