Podcast appearances and mentions of jabari smith jr

Danielle Lerner joins Wolf and Luke to discuss the reaction in Houston following the Houston Rockets acquiring Kevin Durant, Jalen Green and his potential future, and if Jabari Smith Jr. was an untouchable piece for the Rockets.

Bubba Dub comes in HOT after the Lakers’ embarrassing loss—no sugarcoating, no filter. He’s fed up with LeBron James, slams the coaching staff, and calls out the entire Lakers squad for playing soft. Meanwhile, Rudy Gobert and Antman (Anthony Edwards) get their flowers for putting in WORK!But this episode isn’t just about basketball—Bubba gets personal.From dating drama and money struggles to a wild rant about a shady pastor, Bubba spills it all with emotion, humor, and real talk.Plus, he gives a first-hand report from the Rockets vs. Warriors game in Houston, praising Fred VanVleet and Jabari Smith Jr. for clamping down defensively, while predicting Golden State’s bounce-back at home.Also in this episode:• Raw emotions and real-life frustrations• Relationship red flags and modern-day culture clapbacks• Advice for the youngins: Chase goals, avoid traps, and check your circle• A surprising mental health message you don’t want to miss#Volume #ClubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bubba Dub is BACK with another wild one after watching the Rockets vs. Warriors showdown!He kicks things off with some Easter and 4/20 confusion (how y’all celebrating both at the same time??) and a hilarious joke about KFC dropping chicken-flavored toothpaste!Game Recap - Rockets vs. Warriors: • Warriors snagged the W! • Jaylen Green disappeared, Fred VanVleet couldn’t hit a shot (missed 19!), and Jabari Smith Jr. gotta toughen up. • Meanwhile, Steph Curry cooked like usual, and Buddy Hield gave unexpected heat.Golden State’s championship DNA still strong!Lakers vs. Timberwolves Game 1: • Lakers came out flat! • LeBron was way too passive, role players looked shaky, and Timberwolves hit a crazy amount of 3s. • Bubba Dub gives Anthony Edwards BIG props for that aggressive mindset.Real Talk and Life Lessons: • Lakers need defense and ENERGY. Rockets need more than just star showouts. • Bubba dives deep into work ethic, toxic relationships, and why supporting mediocrity gotta stop! • Drops honest gems about giving to women before taking care of mama—and admitting HE needs therapy too.NBA Playoff Predictions: • Clippers vs. Nuggets? 7-game battle! • Cavs will dominate. Heat might sneak 1 game. • Orlando Magic? Talented but ain’t ready yet.Personal Stories and Hilarious Moments: • Bubba tells a wild story about a cougar trying to move in with him… and how he ended up oiling her up like a “baby seal” (you gotta hear this one!) • Plenty of grown-folks humor and crazy visuals!Reflections and Motivation: • No, Bubba didn’t sign no $100M deal (yet)—but he’s dreaming BIG. • Encourages everyone to stay real, trust God over people, avoid drama, and focus on growth.Career Journey: • Left Blue Bell Ice Cream to chase his dream during COVID. • Talks about sacrifices, fake friends, and why loyalty beats blood. • Excited to bring new family characters and comedy flavors to the stage!Final Words: • Thanks the fans for the love and support! • Bubba Dub is locked in for 2025 — positive mindset, bigger dreams, bigger moves!#Volume #ClubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The NBA's 2024-25 postseason begins with Tuesday night's play-in tournament games — and in the Western Conference, the Golden State/Memphis winner will earn the No. 7 playoff seed and a date with the No. 2 Rockets in a first-round series. With that in mind, our latest show explores key variables and storylines for the Rockets (52-30) entering the 2025 playoffs.Discussion topics s include whether the Warriors or Grizzlies would be a better matchup; arguments for Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., Jalen Green, and Ime Udoka as playoff X-factors; perpsective on what we saw in the closing games of the regular season; and the implications of Phoenix (36-46) missing the playoffs and sending a 2025 draft lottery pick to Houston.

Despite trailing by 25 points in the second half, the winning streak is somehow at seven games and counting for the Rockets (44-25, No. 2 in West) after Monday's bizarre victory over Philadelphia.In Wednesday's show, our Ben DuBose reacts to all the latest developments, including an increasingly important home-court advantage; clear signs of progress for Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr.; and why Alperen Sengun's second-half benching versus the Sixers shouldn't be a major concern.

Despite a career-high 46 points from Quentin Grimes, the Houston Rockets came back from a 25-point second half deficit to force overtime on an Alperen Sengun tip-in at the buzzer, then pulled away in the extra frame for their 7th consecutive win. Jabari Smith Jr had a season-high 30 off the bench for the Rockets. The Sixers came out firing on all cylinders early on, making a season high 24 3-pointers to finish with one of their best offensive performances of the season. In addition to Grimes, Jared Butler (21 points) and Justin Edwards (18) each had big nights in a losing effort.

With Amen Thompson sidelined by injury, the Rockets (40-25) have begun experimenting with bigger lineups, and it seems to be working — as evidenced by Houston's three-game winning streak.With that in mind, Wednesday's show explores the short- and long-term feasibility of the Alperen Sengun-Steven Adams “double big” lineup, along with insight on Jabari Smith Jr.'s recent surge and his viability as a 6-foot-11 small forward.The episode concludes with a look at the Western Conference playoff race and whether the No. 5 Rockets can catch one of the three teams just ahead of them (Nuggets, Lakers, and Grizzlies) in the standings.

Tim Legler and Adam Mares breakdown the Indiana Pacers edging out the Houston Rockets as Tyrese Haliburton shines and Indiana's playoff hopes grow, while Houston's struggles continue. What's missing from Jabari Smith Jr.'s game? Next, which team is in the worst spot—the Suns, 76ers, or Mavericks? Should Philly rebuild, and should Phoenix trade Kevin Durant and Devin Booker? Do the Mavs need to stay in win-now mode? Plus, which young team—Magic, Rockets, or Pistons—will contend first? Tim Legler shouts out Zach LaVine, and Adam Mares highlights Shaedon Sharpe.An ALLCITY Network ProductionAll music credited to Greg Kramer, check him out on Spotify!FanDuel: ALL NBA - Presented by FanDuel! Just visit https://fanduel.com/allnba to join today. You'll get started with 150 in BONUS BETS if you win your first $5 bet. 21+ and present in Colorado. First online real money wager only. $5 first deposit required. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable bonus bets which expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See terms at https://sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call or TEXT 1-800-522-4700.Constant Contact: Time to put the go in your 2024 business goals with email, social, SMS, and customized marketing campaigns built for you in just a few clicks. Ready, set? Go to https://constantcontact.com/allcity and start your FREE trial today.Gametime: Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code ALLNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Again, create an account and redeem code ALLNBA for $20 off. Last minute tickets. Lowest Price. Guaranteed.Indeed: listeners of this show will get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT to get your jobs more visibility at https://indeed.com/allcity. Terms and conditions apply.  Need to hire? You need Indeed.Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/ALLNBA and get on your way to being your best self.Bluechew: Try BlueChew FREE when you use our promo code ALLCITY at checkout--just pay $5 shipping. That's https://bluechew.com promo code ALLCITY to receive your first month FREE. Visit for more details and important safety information, and we thank BlueChew for sponsoring the podcast.Shady Rays is giving out their best deal of the season. Head to https://shadyrays.com and use code: AC35 for 35% off polarized sunglasses. Try for yourself the shades rated 5 stars by over 300,000 people.HelloFresh - Get 10 FREE meals at https://hellofresh.com/freenba. Applied across 7 boxes, new subscribers only, varies by plan.FitBod: Add Fitbod to your workout essentials. Join Fitbod today to get your personalized workout plan. Get 25% off your subscription or try the app FREE at https://fitbod.me/ALLNBA.When you shop through links in the description, we may earn affiliate commissions.Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. 

With Fred VanVleet back healthy, Rockets coach Ime Udoka announced Friday that Houston (37-22) plans to start start Amen Thompson and Dillon Brooks at forward for the foreseeable future (ahead of Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason).Our Ben DuBose explains the reasons behind those choices, including the importance of building chemistry and continuity among the starting five as the 2025 NBA playoffs approach.

Adam Clanton and Adam Wexler makes his return to talk about what's going on in Houston sports and more on February 21st 2025.Happy Birthday Wex!Rockets are back on the home floor tonight against the Timberwolves.Jabari Smith Jr. is back. FVV is not... We get to know new Astro Brendan Rodgers. Joe Espada says they do not want to overwork Jose Altuve. Hockey in Houston?A Presidential Royal Rumble.Mavs fans are down bad...We finally hear from Mauricio Dubon. 

ITL dives into concerns about potential regression for the Texans and makes bold Spring Training predictions. Plus, how are you still old-school when it comes to fashion? Around the NFL, Zach Martin retires, and the league could move the Combine—where to? Plus, which Houston team will win the city's next championship? In What's Popping, Reggie is triple dipping this weekend, and is Rob Manfred done with ESPN? Jabari Smith Jr. is back! But when Fred VanVleet returns, what should the Rockets' starting lineup look like? Plus, Lunch-Time Confessions, Lopez actually agrees with Stephen A. Smith, and should the Texans bring back a recently released former player? Dynamo Head Coach Ben Olsen joins ahead of the home opener. Could Ja Morant be on the move? Should the Rockets make a play for him? U of H AD Eddie Nuñez joins the show, and Figgy's Mixtape breaks down the most annoying phrases people say. Plus, P&P are roommates again—how's that going?

Nick brings Nathan back for Part Three of their 10-Year Draft Retrospective series, covering the changes among forwards in the last 10 years of the draft. They discuss the tweener distinction mostly shifting from the 3/4 to the 4/5, and the evolution of defensive responsibilities for forwards. They also cover the top of the 2022 NBA Draft class at length, and how Paolo Banchero, Jabari Smith Jr., and Keegan Murray typify the evolving expectations for larger forwards. Finally, they wrap up by discussing some of the top forward prospects in the class, including some Cooper Flagg discussion and a debate about two very different forwards in Collin Murray-Boyles and Rasheer Fleming. Timestamps: 5:00: Tweener Discussion 20:00: 2022 NBA Draft Class 50:00: Cooper Flagg 1:05:00: CMB vs. Fleming To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nick brings Nathan back for Part Three of their 10-Year Draft Retrospective series, covering the changes among forwards in the last 10 years of the draft. They discuss the tweener distinction mostly shifting from the 3/4 to the 4/5, and the evolution of defensive responsibilities for forwards. They also cover the top of the 2022 NBA Draft class at length, and how Paolo Banchero, Jabari Smith Jr., and Keegan Murray typify the evolving expectations for larger forwards. Finally, they wrap up by discussing some of the top forward prospects in the class, including some Cooper Flagg discussion and a debate about two very different forwards in Collin Murray-Boyles and Rasheer Fleming. Timestamps: 5:00: Tweener Discussion 20:00: 2022 NBA Draft Class 50:00: Cooper Flagg 1:05:00: CMB vs. Fleming To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brandon Scott is joined by Big Sarge of the Locked on Texans podcast to talk all things Texans, Rockets and Astros.- What do the Texans need now that they've hired a new offensive coordinator and promoted the assistant offensive line coach?- How good are the Rockets at the All-Star break and who goes to the bench when Jabari Smith Jr. gets back?- Is the Astros' World Series window closed now that Alex Bregman and Kyle Tucker are gone?BONUS: The price of eggs is simply ridiculous.

Brandon Scott and Adam Spolane of SportsRadio610 discuss the Rockets' wild finish against the Cavs; Ime Udoka wanting to get back to basics; the Tari Eason-Cam Whitmore bench combo and who starts whenever Jabari Smith Jr. gets healthy.

With the second half of the 2024-25 NBA season officially underway, this week's episode reviews what we've learned about the Rockets (28-14), who remain in an impressive No. 2 standings spot in the Western Conference.Topics include some regression in recent weeks from Alperen Sengun and Houston's team defense; why the ascension of Jalen Green and Amen Thompson has largely offset that; and important lineup and rotation considerations moving forward involving players such as Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Steven Adams, Dillon Brooks, and more.

Jalen Green tied his career high with 42 points in Monday's 120-118 comeback win against the Memphis Grizzlies, but that does not overshadow the performance of Amen Thompson, who recorded an impressive stat line of his own. Thompson garnered 19 points, 13 rebounds, four assists, five blocks and two steals over 41 minutes to mark his 10th double-double of the season. The No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft is averaging 15.6 points, 11 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.9 blocks and 1.4 steals over his last eight games, seven of which Thompson was in the starting lineup. "A lot of guys are benefiting from him being in the lineup," Rockets head coach Ime Udoka said. Thompson replaced Jabari Smith Jr. as a starter after Smith broke his left hand during shootaround and will be out 4-6 weeks. While Thompson's shooting isn't the highlight of his game, he adds a faster pace, ball-handling skills and strong defense to a starting lineup that has led the Rockets to the No. 2 spot in the Western Conference. "He's going to compliment guys on both sides of the ball," Udoka said. Thompson's defensive instincts have taken pressure off his fellow starters, especially with Udoka matching him up against the opponent's more athletic players. "He blocks shots that normally guys can't get to...I'm not surprised by anything he's doing defensively," Udoka said.

Jalen Green tied his career high with 42 points in Monday's 120-118 comeback win against the Memphis Grizzlies, but that does not overshadow the performance of Amen Thompson, who recorded an impressive stat line of his own. Thompson garnered 19 points, 13 rebounds, four assists, five blocks and two steals over 41 minutes to mark his 10th double-double of the season. The No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft is averaging 15.6 points, 11 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.9 blocks and 1.4 steals over his last eight games, seven of which Thompson was in the starting lineup. "A lot of guys are benefiting from him being in the lineup," Rockets head coach Ime Udoka said. Thompson replaced Jabari Smith Jr. as a starter after Smith broke his left hand during shootaround and will be out 4-6 weeks. While Thompson's shooting isn't the highlight of his game, he adds a faster pace, ball-handling skills and strong defense to a starting lineup that has led the Rockets to the No. 2 spot in the Western Conference. "He's going to compliment guys on both sides of the ball," Udoka said. Thompson's defensive instincts have taken pressure off his fellow starters, especially with Udoka matching him up against the opponent's more athletic players. "He blocks shots that normally guys can't get to...I'm not surprised by anything he's doing defensively," Udoka said.

In one of the biggest matchups of their season so far, the Rockets will face the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday for the No. 2 spot in the Western Conference. The Rockets currently have a half-game lead on the Grizzlies, and with a win, will earn a full 1.5-game lead and hold a 2-0 record in an important tiebreaker. "It'll be a good test for us," head coach Ime Udoka said. The Rockets are coming off a dominant 135-112 victory over the Washington Wizards to begin their three-game road trip. The starting lineup got off to a slow start, being down 10 points in the first quarter, but Jalen Green scored 22 of his 29 points in the third quarter, putting the game out of reach for the Wizards. "We definitely looked a little sluggish coming out of the gate," Udoka said. Green and Alperen Sengun continue to be the offensive leaders for the Rockets, even with more teams keying in on their play and altering their attacks. Sengun is "one of the best scoring big men in the league... We love the open shots he creates for us," Udoka said. The Rockets have secured strong wins even with injuries affecting their rotation. Jabari Smith Jr. is out with a left metacarpal fracture, and Tari Eason has been dealing with lower left leg soreness that required surgery last March. Eason has missed 10 straight games. "We want to be smart with it," Udoka said. "He's trending in the right direction." With players recovering from injury, Cam Whitmore has stepped up after a slow start to his sophomore season, recording 17 points in 18 minutes against the Wizards. Following his return from a brief assignment to the G League, Whitmore appeared displeased with his role on the team when speaking to the media after a win over the Dallas Mavericks. However, Udoka combats speculation concerning Whitmore's attitude. "People are making a little bit too much out of nothing." Rookie Reed Sheppard was assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on Monday and scored 49 points on 17-for-33 shooting in his debut Tuesday against the Oklahoma City Blue. According to Udoka, Sheppard won't stay in the G League for long. "He'll be back with us when we play Memphis at home [on January 13]."

In one of the biggest matchups of their season so far, the Rockets will face the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday for the No. 2 spot in the Western Conference. The Rockets currently have a half-game lead on the Grizzlies, and with a win, will earn a full 1.5-game lead and hold a 2-0 record in an important tiebreaker. "It'll be a good test for us," head coach Ime Udoka said. The Rockets are coming off a dominant 135-112 victory over the Washington Wizards to begin their three-game road trip. The starting lineup got off to a slow start, being down 10 points in the first quarter, but Jalen Green scored 22 of his 29 points in the third quarter, putting the game out of reach for the Wizards. "We definitely looked a little sluggish coming out of the gate," Udoka said. Green and Alperen Sengun continue to be the offensive leaders for the Rockets, even with more teams keying in on their play and altering their attacks. Sengun is "one of the best scoring big men in the league... We love the open shots he creates for us," Udoka said. The Rockets have secured strong wins even with injuries affecting their rotation. Jabari Smith Jr. is out with a left metacarpal fracture, and Tari Eason has been dealing with lower left leg soreness that required surgery last March. Eason has missed 10 straight games. "We want to be smart with it," Udoka said. "He's trending in the right direction." With players recovering from injury, Cam Whitmore has stepped up after a slow start to his sophomore season, recording 17 points in 18 minutes against the Wizards. Following his return from a brief assignment to the G League, Whitmore appeared displeased with his role on the team when speaking to the media after a win over the Dallas Mavericks. However, Udoka combats speculation concerning Whitmore's attitude. "People are making a little bit too much out of nothing." Rookie Reed Sheppard was assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on Monday and scored 49 points on 17-for-33 shooting in his debut Tuesday against the Oklahoma City Blue. According to Udoka, Sheppard won't stay in the G League for long. "He'll be back with us when we play Memphis at home [on January 13]."

ITL Hour 3: John Lopez “O.G.” Passing Thoughts Week 18 Edition vs Titans. ITL Lunch-Time Confessions, rooting for the Titans to win? How valuable is Jabari Smith Jr on the Rockets? ITL discusses.

ITL Hour 1: Texans win against the Titans, but how should we really feel about this season? Black Monday kicked off and ITl has takes on it all. QOTD: Who would you fire in real life? ITL Hour 2: Around The NFL, Last week of regular seaso football, Tyreek Hill out from the Fins, & more. What's Popping, Rockets beat the Lakers, FS1 sued? & more. Texans Head Coach DeMeco Ryans speaks to the media. ITL Hour 3: John Lopez “O.G.” Passing Thoughts Week 18 Edition vs Titans. ITL Lunch-Time Confessions, rooting for the Titans to win? How valuable is Jabari Smith Jr on the Rockets? ITL discusses. ITL Hour 4: Texans vs Chargers, what should the Texans expect on Saturday? Figgy's Mixtape: 6 days into 2025 and drama all over the place. How confident are you with this O-Line going into the playoffs?

Sunday's mini-episode features Ben's reaction to Jabari Smith Jr. breaking his left hand, including potential lineup and rotation implications for players such as Amen Thompson, Alperen Sengun, Cam Whitmore, Jae'Sean Tate, Tari Eason, and Jalen Green.

Houston Rockets

Shannon Sharpe and Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson react to rumors that Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors are going to go after LeBron James and Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler after a crazy loss to Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr. and the Houston Rockets 91-90 in the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup. Later, Unc and Ocho discuss Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks big win on the road against Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns and the New York Knicks, Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler’s agent firing back at Shams for what he calls “bulls–t” reports about teams that Jimmy would be willing to be traded to this season and much more!03:13 - Show start03:50 - Intro04:50 - Warriors v Rockets16:30 - Hawks v Knicks23:55 - Jimmy Butler possible trade36:45 - Butler’s agent vs Shams40:36 - Dirk Championship run45:13 - Perkins on Trae Young53:30 - Shaq - NBA is terrible(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements.) #Volume #ClubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After 10 wins in 12 games, the Rockets (15-6, 3-0) entered Tuesday just a half-game back of Oklahoma City for first place in the Western Conference. In an unbeaten Thanksgiving week, Houston secured a statement win at Minnesota — clinching its NBA Cup group — before posting an even more impressive victory at home versus the Thunder.With that in mind, our latest show explores all the associated angles and ripple effects. Discussion topics include the implications of improved play by Fred VanVleet and Jabari Smith Jr.; opportunities for further team improvement, both internally and through external trades; and lessons to be learned when it comes to team building in the modern NBA.

Dan and Grant go through 40-plus sets(!) of NBA players and decide which one they would rather have for the NEXT FIVE YEARS. TIMESTAMPS

Mike Gribanov (@mikegrib8 on all platforms, including his excellent Patreon) returns to discuss the 17-1 Cleveland Cavaliers, their hitherto dominant offense, and a developmental check in on Evan Mobley. Then, we discuss the gnarly Houston ROckets' defense and where their team goes from here with so many darts and so little time. Stay tuned for a more in depth draft philosophy discussion later this week. Enjoy!TIME STAMPS (0:00) Intro + Mike's Patreon(7:40) Cleveland Cavaliers(23:45) Cavs' Defense and Evan Mobley(50:25) Houston Rockets + Tari Eason(1:06:20) Amen Thompson(1:13:30) Jabari Smith Jr(1:17:30) Jalen Green + Halfcourt Offense(1:29:00) Draft Philosophy Preview + Wrap

Dan and Grant go through some early NBA season trends, developments and predictions and then play 'Fact or Fiction?' Topics include Nikola Jokic, the Golden State Warriors, Defensive Player of the Year, Darius Garland, Eastern Conference playoff teams, the future of the Miami Heat, trades, the Dallas Mavericks and more! TIMESTAMPS

The Houston Rockets are off to their best start through 11 games since the 2019-20 season following Monday's 107-92 victory over the Washington Wizards, improving to 7-4. The Rockets won the fourth of their last five games without Fred VanVleet, who is dealing with a hamstring injury. Amen Thompson entered the starting lineup and recorded 13 points. Tari Eason provided a spark off the bench, scoring 10 with six rebounds, three steals and two blocks. When asked about his preference to playing the hot hand, head coach Ime Udoka said, "We're going to play the guys that play best... We have a ton of options, a ton of versatility." Jabari Smith Jr. has struggled offensively, especially from beyond the arc, shooting 25% so far this season. Until the shots come back around, "we want guys to stay confident," and Jabari "can still impact the game in many ways," Udoka said. VanVleet has also gotten off to a shaky start, averaging 37.9% from the field. "Until the shots do fall...We always want to rely on our defense." VanVleet is questionable for Wednesday's matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers, but Udoka said "he felt good today" at morning shootaround. The Rockets are tied with the Memphis Grizzlies for fifth in the Western Conference and will look to maintain a winning record by working towards a big goal: "We've really stressed being number one in offensive rebounds this year," Udoka said. The Rockets are currently second in the league in total offensive rebounds.

The Houston Rockets are off to their best start through 11 games since the 2019-20 season following Monday's 107-92 victory over the Washington Wizards, improving to 7-4. The Rockets won the fourth of their last five games without Fred VanVleet, who is dealing with a hamstring injury. Amen Thompson entered the starting lineup and recorded 13 points. Tari Eason provided a spark off the bench, scoring 10 with six rebounds, three steals and two blocks. When asked about his preference to playing the hot hand, head coach Ime Udoka said, "We're going to play the guys that play best... We have a ton of options, a ton of versatility." Jabari Smith Jr. has struggled offensively, especially from beyond the arc, shooting 25% so far this season. Until the shots come back around, "we want guys to stay confident," and Jabari "can still impact the game in many ways," Udoka said. VanVleet has also gotten off to a shaky start, averaging 37.9% from the field. "Until the shots do fall...We always want to rely on our defense." VanVleet is questionable for Wednesday's matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers, but Udoka said "he felt good today" at morning shootaround. The Rockets are tied with the Memphis Grizzlies for fifth in the Western Conference and will look to maintain a winning record by working towards a big goal: "We've really stressed being number one in offensive rebounds this year," Udoka said. The Rockets are currently second in the league in total offensive rebounds.

Rockets Defeat Mavs, Jalen Green the Closer!! and Why the Rockets Impressed Me!#jalengreen #alperensengun #nba #houstonrockets #reedsheppard Get exclusive access to all the best Chop Shop Content and become a member today! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUV_6ruDGYAVsY-KkutlrWQ/joinFollow the HTX Chop Shop on all platforms: https://t.co/Anycu1MqtoFollow our speakers on Twitter: @ftank58Support the show

Thursday's episode features more insight related to the ongoing 2024-25 preseason for the Rockets (2-1). Topics include encouraging signs from Steven Adams and Dillon Brooks; questions with Jabari Smith Jr. and Cam Whitmore; and notes surrounding the remainder of Houston's roster.

Dan is joined by Salman Ali (@SalmanAliNBA) from Red Nation Hoops to break down everything about the 2024-25 Houston Rockets. Subscribe to Red Nation Hoops. TIMESTAMPS

Join Brevin Knight and Rob Fischer as they discuss: - The Giants have pissed Brevin off- Could Jake Laravia take a step forward? - Who does Jabari Smith Jr remind Brevin of?

There are a boatload of really easy calls in the 76-100 range, and Dan intends to point them all out today! Plus, who are the possible BIG LEAPERS in this mix and who are the few players to avoid like the plague? Players covered: Josh Giddey, Bradley Beal, D'Angelo Russell, CJ McCollum, Jrue Holiday, Coby White, Kyle Kuzma, Khris Middleton, Jakob Poeltl, Jalen Suggs, Isaiah Hartenstein, Jonas Valanciunas, Anfernee Simons, Terry Rozier, Trey Murphy III, Austin Reaves, Jabari Smith Jr, John Collins, Jerami Grant, Chris Paul, Tyus Jones, Kristaps Porzingis, Jordan Poole, Herb Jones, Alex Caruso. Follow @DanBesbris on Twitter: https://x.com/danbesbris Check out Dan's Yahoo Rank Tracker Sheet FREE! https://bit.ly/3XrAdEW Listen and subscribe on iTunes: https://apple.co/3XiUzQK Listen and subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ACCHYe Float on over to the new Old Man Squad Sports Network YouTube page to watch videos from the network's top talent: https://bit.ly/46Z6fvb Podcast logo by https://twitter.com/freekeepoints Beats by https://twitter.com/slickrach

Future Hall of Famer, Dallas Mavericks phenom, and Humanitarian J.J. Barea joins the Oddball crew to tell us why the Mavs are winning the Finals and more. Speaking of J.J., it seems that all along, everyone thought J.J. Redick might be the coach of the Lakers; however, it turns out the Lakers have been scouting two-time NCAA champion Dan Hurley. Nobody knows who will be the coach, but Amin and Charlotte predict we will find out when the season starts. We also bring back our Hype Me Up segment featuring Grant Williams, Jabari Smith Jr, Matthew Tkachuk, and Luka Doncic, but Amin is feeling chippy today and may not hype up anybody. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Future Hall of Famer, Dallas Mavericks phenom, and Humanitarian J.J. Barea joins the Oddball crew to tell us why the Mavs are winning the Finals and more. Speaking of J.J., it seems that all along, everyone thought J.J. Redick might be the coach of the Lakers; however, it turns out the Lakers have been scouting two-time NCAA champion Dan Hurley. Nobody knows who will be the coach, but Amin and Charlotte predict we will find out when the season starts. We also bring back our Hype Me Up segment featuring Grant Williams, Jabari Smith Jr, Matthew Tkachuk, and Luka Doncic, but Amin is feeling chippy today and may not hype up anybody. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jabari Smith Jr. Houston Rockets Season Review: Shooting & Defensive Growth, Big Questions & MoreHost Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) is joined by weekly cohost and NBA Draft enthusiast Madison Moore (@MadManLeaks) to discuss Jabari Smith Jr.'s Houston Rockets season in review, highlighting expectations coming into his second season, important areas of growth like three-point shooting and defensive versatility, can Jabari grow into an elite play finisher, important questions, standout plays, key stats, overall season grade and more.#Rockets #NBA #JabariSmithJrFollow Madison & his YouTube: https://twitter.com/MadManLeaks & https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI-ES3c38dnqNlusPMO7n3w

Fred VanVleet Drops 37 & Defense Stops Paolo Banchero In Houston Rockets Win Vs Orlando MagicHost Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) reacts to and discusses the Houston Rockets 118-106 win vs the Orlando Magic in their final home game of the season behind a sensational season-high 37 points from Fred VanVleet. Fred's hot start and carrying the Rockets offensively, how the defense stopped Paolo Banchero, growth from game 1 of the season vs Magic up to now, one of Jabari Smith Jr.'s best all-around games, Jalen Green making the right reads while getting doubled all night and more.#Rockets #NBA #FredVanVleet

Ime Udoka Calls Out Soft Play As Houston Rockets NBA Play-In Hopes Ended By Golden State WarriorsHost Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) is joined by weekly cohost and NBA Draft enthusiast Madison Moore (@MadManLeaks) to discuss the Houston Rockets all but officially being eliminated from the NBA Play-in Tournament race after their 133-110 loss to Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors. Ime Udoka calling out the Rockets soft play saying "the moment was too big" for certain guys, Rockets not capitalizing on the Warriors sloppy first quarter play, Jabari Smith Jr. showing up offensively but struggling to match the Warriors physicality, Jalen Green playmaking at a high level but not "stepping up" as a star needs to, why this season is still a huge success and more.#Rockets #NBA #ImeUdokaFollow Madison & his YouTube: https://twitter.com/MadManLeaks & https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI-ES3c38dnqNlusPMO7n3w

Dan is joined by Salman Ali (@SalmanAliNBA) from Red Nation Hoops (@RedNationHoops) to discuss the Houston Rockets, their late-season surge and what the future could and should hold. SUBSCRIBE TO RED NATION HOOPS HERE AND ON YOUTUBE. TIMESTAMPS

Houston Rockets Win Streak Ended By Mavericks, Why Defensive Scheme Vs Luka Doncic Was A DISASTERHost Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) is joined by weekly cohost and NBA Draft enthusiast Madison Moore (@MadManLeaks) to discuss the Houston Rockets 11-game win streak being snapped by Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks in a 125-107 loss at home. Why the Rockets defensive scheme and lack of adjustments against Luka was a disaster, how the Mavs completely took Jalen Green out of the game with double-teams, offensive struggles for Amen Thompson and Dillon Brooks, Jabari Smith Jr. with a strong night offensively, Cam Whitmore's return to the lineup and more.#Rockets #JalenGreen #JabariSmithJrFollow Madison & his YouTube: https://twitter.com/MadManLeaks & https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI-ES3c38dnqNlusPMO7n3w

Jalen Green Superstar Night & Jabari Smith Jr CLUTCH In Houston Rockets Overtime Win Vs OKC ThunderHost Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) is joined by weekly cohost and NBA Draft enthusiast Madison Moore (@MadManLeaks) to discuss the Houston Rockets biggest game of the season AND the past few years as they get the 132-126 overtime win vs the OKC Thunder, extending the win streak to 10 straight games and keeping their play-in tournament hopes alive. Jalen Green's superstar performance to the lead the Rockets, including 37 points and some INSANE plays late in overtime to put the game away, Jabari Smith Jr.'s biggest shot of his career to take the lead late in regulation, Amen Thompson with an incredible 25 point 15 rebound night with impressive defense, how the Rockets shut down Chet Holmgren and more.#Rockets #NBA #JalenGreenFollow Madison & his YouTube: https://twitter.com/MadManLeaks & https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI-ES3c38dnqNlusPMO7n3w

Jalen Green & Fred VanVleet Combine For 75 Points As Houston Rockets COOK Utah Jazz With ThreesHost Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) is joined by weekly cohost and NBA Draft enthusiast Madison Moore (@MadManLeaks) to discuss the Houston Rockets 147-119 blowout win against the Utah Jazz behind some insane three-point shooting and a combined 75 points from Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet. How the Rockets have embraced a new offensive identity since the All-Star break by shooting more threes, Jalen Green making a strong case for ANOTHER player of the week award, the importance of Fred VanVleet to this team, Jabari Smith Jr.'s ejection and suspension, Uncle Jeff Green stepping up with a huge second quarter and more.#Rockets #JalenGreen #FredVanVleetFollow Madison & his YouTube: https://twitter.com/MadManLeaks & https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI-ES3c38dnqNlusPMO7n3w

How Jalen Green & Amen Thompson Ignited Houston Rockets In Blowout Win Vs Washington WizardsHost Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) reacts to and discusses the Houston Rockets 137-114 blowout win against the Washington Wizards, ignited by career-high scoring nights from both Jalen Green (42) and Amen Thompson (25). How Jalen scored against the Wizards defense efficiently at all three levels including getting to the free throw line, Amen growing in his new role as the primary screener and rolling presence with the starting unit, why the Wizards were able to go toe-to-toe with the Rockets for about 2.5 quarters, Jabari Smith Jr. with a quiet 18/14 evening, BLOCK LANDALE with a career-high 7 blocked shots and more.#Rockets #JalenGreen #AmenThompson

Fred VanVleet & Jock Landale Lift Houston Rockets In Win Vs Victor Wembanyama & San Antonio SpursHost Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) is joined by weekly cohost and NBA Draft enthusiast Madison Moore (@MadManLeaks) to discuss the Houston Rockets 103-101 nail-biter win against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, led by Fred VanVleet and Jock Landale. How Jock impacted the game at a high level on BOTH ends and finished a team-high +15 off the bench, Steady Freddy leading the way offensively, Jabari Smith Jr. with a huge second half after going scoreless in the first, how the Rockets defense slowed down Wemby, Jalen Green and Aaron Holiday with clutch free throws at the end to seal the game, Amen Thompson in the Rockets starting lineup and more.#Rockets #NBA #JockLandaleFollow Madison & his YouTube: https://twitter.com/MadManLeaks & https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI-ES3c38dnqNlusPMO7n3w

How Alperen Sengun & Houston Rockets Failed Crunch Time Execution In Loss To James Harden & ClippersHost Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) is joined by weekly cohost and NBA Draft enthusiast Madison Moore (@MadManLeaks) to discuss and react to the Houston Rockets 122-116 loss to the LA Clippers after leading by as many as 20 points and a monster 23/19/14 triple-double from Alperen Sengun. How the Rockets failed their late-game execution on BOTH sides of the floor, free throw shooting continues to be Sengun's Achilles heel, best game we've seen from Alpi handling double-teams and Rockets shooters actually knocking down shots, Jabari Smith Jr.'s struggling on defense and on the glass, how Mason Plumlee and Paul George changed the game in the second half for LA, Cam Whitmore increasing the Rockets pace off the bench and more.#Rockets #NBA #AlperenSengunFollow Madison & his YouTube: https://twitter.com/MadManLeaks & https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI-ES3c38dnqNlusPMO7n3w

Host Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) is joined by weekly cohost and NBA Draft enthusiast Madison Moore (@MadManLeaks) to discuss the Houston Rockets 123-110 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. A fantastic first 18 or so minutes of play from the Rockets leading by as many as 16 before unraveling the rest of the way, defensive gameplan on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, needing more from Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr.'s MONSTER double-double night, no answer for Chet Holmgren in the fourth quarter, the concerning regression of Dillon Brooks and more. #Rockets #AlperenSengun #JabariSmithJr Follow Madison & his YouTube:  https://twitter.com/MadManLeaks & https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI-ES3c38dnqNlusPMO7n3w 

Verno and KOC open the show by discussing Kevin's latest article detailing Nuggets GM Calvin Booth's desire to build a dynasty in Denver (01:36). Damian Lillard made his Bucks debut over the weekend, as the guys share what they like about the Dame-Giannis duo, then discuss the biggest questions surrounding the Lakers heading into the season (25:01). The guys next debate whether Ben Simmons can return to form as a defensive force after a strong preseason showing, and the latest around James Harden (33:40). Is Terance Mann really the holdup in a Harden trade to the Clippers? Also, the guys discuss the snake-bitten Pelicans, as well as their excitement for Jabari Smith Jr.'s development (48:36). Read KOC's article about Calvin Booth and the Nuggets here. Got a question for Verno and KOC? Send them an email at nbamailbag@gmail.com! Or you can send the guys a tweet @ChrisVernonShow and @KevinOConnorNBA! The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out http://theringer.com/RG to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices