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The Houston Rockets’ starting lineup is largely decided, but one key spot remains uncertain as training camp approaches later this month.

Houston traded starters Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks to Phoenix, along with the 10th pick in this year’s draft, as part of the blockbuster Kevin Durant deal.

Durant is expected to start alongside Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, and Fred VanVleet, but coach Ime Udoka has several choices to make for the fifth position.

“It’s to be determined,” Udoka told Ben DuBose of RocketsWire at a September 11 community event the team hosted this week.

“I do think Jabari (Smith Jr.) showed tremendous growth this offseason, and obviously he started the majority of his time here, before the injury. But we’ll take a look at everything. We feel we have incredible depth this year and a lot of versatility, so we could go a number of different ways, as far as that. I think some of that will be proven in training camp.”

Smith started last season in the lineup and maintained that role for 39 games before a hand injury sidelined him in January. Amen Thompson stepped in and performed so well that returning Smith to the bench became a difficult decision.

After recovering, Smith served as the sixth man for the remainder of the season. Still, he might be the ideal complement to the current starting four.

At 6’11”, Smith adds significant size alongside Durant and Sengun, while his three-point shooting ability can stretch defenses and open driving lanes.

DuBose also points out that the Rockets found great success using double-big lineups late last season, suggesting center Steven Adams could earn consideration in certain matchups.

Adams started only three regular-season games, but Udoka relied heavily on him during the playoff series against Golden State, highlighting his value in key moments.

Free agent addition Dorian Finney-Smith brings strong wing defense and a veteran presence to the roster. After joining the Lakers in a December trade last season, he significantly improved their defensive efficiency.

At 32, he remains a dependable outside shooter, hitting 41.1% of his three-point attempts.

Another candidate for the final starting spot is fourth-year forward Tari Eason, who logged 16 starts last season – the most of his NBA career. Eason offers disruptive defensive energy similar to Finney-Smith, though he is still developing his perimeter shooting.

With multiple capable options, Udoka’s final decision may hinge on matchups, defensive schemes, and how players perform during training camp.

One thing is certain: the Rockets boast a wealth of versatility and depth, giving the coach flexibility to experiment before the season officially begins.

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