When Fred VanVleet went down with a season-ending injury before the start of the Houston Rockets’ 2025 training camp, the Rockets looked for a backcourt player to step up and replace their on-court leader. The Rockets tried multiple players, including…
Lachard Binkley argues that Marcus Smart is the versatile utility player the Houston Rockets need to bolster backcourt depth and defensive flexibility. Smart recently debuted for Houston during a preseason game in China, recording 20 points, five rebounds, and four assists in a 132-117 defeat against the Dallas Mavericks.
The writer notes that Houston suffered from backcourt depth issues after Fred VanVleet's previous injury and subsequent playoff struggles. Binkley emphasizes that head coach Ime Udoka knows Smart well from their time with the Boston Celtics, arguing Smart's veteran defense will prove vital for Houston.
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