The Rockets have taken a different approach this season, leading the league in two statistics, and their retro style of play has become a pioneer against the trend.

It should be said that the mood of Rockets fans in the past few months has been like riding a roller coaster. After signing during the offseason, the Rockets had a strong lineup. However, starting point guard VanVleet suffered a serious injury and was very likely to be reimbursed for the season. In addition, the signed striker Finney Smith also underwent surgery and missed the start of the season. This will have a big impact on the Rockets' overall strength and bench depth.

But so far this season, the Rockets have found a different approach. After losing to the Thunder and Pistons in a row, the Rockets have indeed rebounded strongly. In particular, these two statistics lead the entire league. This is the main reason why the Rockets' fans are basically satisfied with both their record and the perception on the court. First of all, in terms of offensive efficiency, the Rockets rank first in the league, which is somewhat surprising. After all, the Rockets had a good record last season, but their offense was actually average. But the changes in the Rockets lie in the three cores. First, both Shen Jing and Amen Thompson have evolved again this season. As for the addition of Durant, the Rockets are even more powerful. Even if he is indeed old, his offensive ability is still outstanding in the league.

Another statistic is rebounding. The Rockets coaching staff made a bold attempt to put veteran Steven Adams into the starting lineup and form a twin tower with Shen Jing. Although the Rockets had this arrangement during the playoffs last year, it is still surprising that the twin tower lineup has become a regular weapon this season. But at least so far, this arrangement has paid off very well. Not only has the Rockets become the best rebounding team in the league and even in history, but with Adams and Shen Jing partnered, the Rockets have the highest score per 100 possessions among the active duo.

The Rockets' current retro style of play has also become the league's anti-trend pioneer. You must know that with VanVleet's injury, the Rockets simply do not have a traditional point guard. Regardless of Shepard, Amen Thompson and Holiday, their offensive end is focused on scoring and they are not good at passing and controlling organization. Fortunately, the Rockets still have Shen Jing, who has completely played a poor version of Jokic this season. The Rockets let Shen Jing control the ball, and others actively moved around, waiting for him to distribute and transfer.

At the same time, the Rockets are at the bottom of the league in three-point attempts. After all, Adams and Amen Thompson basically have no outside shooting threats. Although Shen Jing has developed three-pointers, it is relatively not a conventional offensive method. Even so, the Rockets rely on their inside advantages, including their terrifying ability to switch offense and defense, and have still become a magic weapon to defeat the enemy.