Head coach Ime Udoka has instilled a culture of accountability, defensive toughness, and team-first basketball that has completely transformed the Rockets’ identity from a rebuilding project to a playoff-caliber force. His rotations are sharp, his adjustments timely, and his demand for defensive effort from every player—regardless of role—has paid dividends, especially in close games. The Rockets now resemble a balanced and composed squad that can execute in both half-court sets and in transition, with an emphasis on sharing the basketball and communicating on defense. The frontcourt has played an essential role in Houston’s surge. Alperen Şengün, now emerging as one of the league’s most dynamic young big men, has led the way with his crafty footwork, elite passing for a center, and ability to score in a variety of ways. He’s averaging close to 21 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, acting as a hub for the offense in the high and low post. Alongside him, Jabari Smith Jr. has found his rhythm as a stretch-four, knocking down perimeter shots and defending multiple positions, while Tari Eason’s hustle and defensive instincts have helped solidify the Rockets’ second unit. Fred VanVleet has brought championship-level poise and leadership to the Rockets’ backcourt. His steady hand at point guard—coupled with his ability to knock down timely threes and guard opposing point guards effectively—has been vital to Houston’s resurgence. His partnership with rising star Jalen Green has matured throughout the season, with Green learning to balance explosive scoring with more controlled offensive reads. Green’s athleticism and shot-making have become more consistent, especially during this nine-game win streak, where he’s been averaging over 24 points per game with improved efficiency. From a tactical standpoint, Houston’s ability to dictate pace has been a key to their success.

They are equally comfortable running fast breaks off turnovers or executing in a half-court setting where their spacing and cutting create mismatches. Defensively, their switch-heavy scheme has stymied many opponents, especially on the perimeter where they can throw multiple defenders like Dillon Brooks and Amen Thompson at opposing scorers. This versatility allows them to adapt to different offensive threats and maintain a strong defensive rating across various matchups. As they prepare to face the Hawks, the Rockets are clearly the more cohesive and confident team. Atlanta’s inconsistent defensive rotations and reliance on iso-heavy offense make them a vulnerable opponent for a team like Houston that thrives on ball movement and aggressive defensive traps. The home-court advantage also plays into Houston’s hands, where they’ve held one of the league’s best records all season. The Rockets’ focus will be on maintaining their defensive intensity, forcing Trae Young and the Hawks into tough mid-range looks, and attacking the rim through Şengün and Green. Ultimately, this game represents an opportunity for the Rockets to extend their winning streak into double digits and further cement their status as a legitimate playoff threat. With all cylinders firing, Houston is not only aiming to win games—they’re sending a message to the rest of the Western Conference that they are no longer rebuilding. They are built to compete, and on nights like this, they expect to dominate.