This week's episode of The Lager Line (sponsored by Clutch City Lager of Karbach Brewing) breaks down all the key Rockets takeaways from a 5-1 stint at the NBA’s 2023 summer league.
Jabari Smith Jr. was brilliant in two opening games, sparking hope that he could be ready for a year-two breakout season. Then, led by an MVP performance from rookie Cam Whitmore, Houston’s supporting cast was much better than expected over the remaining four games. That helped the Rockets avoid any downturn in performance after Smith, Tari Eason, and Amen Thompson were all shut down.
Today’s show explores the various reasons behind it, headlined by strong coaching from Ben Sullivan and other members of Ime Udoka’s new-look staff with the 2023-24 Rockets.
The episode closes out with a look at a pivotal offseason for third-year guard Jalen Green, who is joining the U.S. Select Team to participate in training camp for the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
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