Josh Okogie Poised to Shine as Dorian Finney-Smith Faces Injury Absence
The Houston Rockets have revamped their roster significantly over the offseason. Notable arrivals include Kevin Durant in a high-profile trade, marking the end of Jalen Green’s tenure with Houston. As part of this transaction, Dillon Brooks, who joined the Rockets in 2023, also departed.
Josh Okogie Steps Up Amid Finney-Smith’s Injury
With the departure of key players, the Rockets aimed to bolster their defensive lineup. They quickly signed Dorian Finney-Smith to a four-year, $53 million deal. Unfortunately, Finney-Smith underwent ankle surgery, raising doubts about his availability for the season’s start.
Okogie’s Defensive Prowess
Enter Josh Okogie, who inked a one-year contract with Houston. Known for his exceptional defense, Okogie’s signing surprised some, given expectations for another point guard addition. Yet, his defensive versatility perfectly aligns with the Rockets’ emphasis on robust defense.
- Okogie is recognized as a top one-on-one defender in the NBA.
- He has guarded elite players like James Harden and Jalen Green.
- Okogie can play both shooting guard and small forward, enhancing depth.
His defensive acumen, particularly in steals, complements the Rockets’ strategy. Okogie fits coach Ime Udoka’s mold—a player who prioritizes defense and often sacrifices offensive stats to excel defensively.
Future Prospects
With Fred VanVleet’s potential season-ending injury, Okogie’s role becomes even more critical. As Finney-Smith recovers, Okogie will likely make a significant impact off the bench. His addition provides the Rockets with much-needed defensive depth as they navigate these initial challenges of the 2023-24 NBA season.
