How The Rockets Became One Of The NBA’s BEST Defensive Teams (Part 9)
We’ve already spotlighted two of the Rockets most underrated defenders this season, Jaylen Green and Shenhen, but now it’s time to talk about their elite wing defenders. And we’re starting with arguably the best wing defender in the league, Aman Thompson. Just watch the tape. Almond’s defensive highlights this season are special. He’s constantly matched up against the opposing team’s top perimeter threat, and night after night, he’s locking down some of the NBA’s best scorers. and at times he makes it look almost too easy. He’s the only player this season to defend at least six field goal attempts each against both Luca Donuch and Steph Curry and hold them to under 25% shooting. But that’s just the beginning. When he’s matched up against the likes of Donovan Mitchell, Anthony Edwards, Damen Lillard, and John Morant, they’re all shooting 34% or worse from the field. That’s elite defense.
How The Rockets Became One Of The NBA’s BEST Defensive Teams!
Jalen Green has quietly emerged as one of the most improved defenders in the NBA—despite being labeled a defensive liability earlier this season. Once the weak link in Houston’s starting five, Green is now holding his own against elite scorers like Jalen Williams, Jayson Tatum, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in pure isolation scenarios.
Yet, despite his growth, opposing offenses still try to hunt mismatches by targeting him—only to find out he’s no longer the easy bucket they expected. What if Jalen’s defensive rise isn’t just a fluke, but the foundation of something bigger? Could this version of Green help anchor a young Rockets team already brimming with elite defenders?
In this breakdown, we’ll take a closer look at the film—showcasing Green’s footwork, discipline, and ability to stay in front of top-tier scorers without fouling. We’ll also explore how Houston’s defensive system, built by Ime Udoka, has elevated not just Jalen, but the entire roster. From Ahmen Thompson locking up Luka and Steph, to Alperen Şengün evolving into a legitimate rim deterrent, the Rockets are shaping into a defensive powerhouse.
With a wing trio of Thompson, Eason, and Brooks wreaking havoc on the perimeter—and Şengün protecting the paint—Houston’s defense is becoming one of the most versatile and disciplined in the league. And as the playoffs approach, they’re not just a fun young team anymore—they’re a real threat in the West.
Could this defensive identity power a deep postseason run? Let’s dive in.
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Footage in this video is owned by the NBA and its partners. It is intended for critique and education.
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