This past offseason, forward Dorian Finney-Smith agreed to a four-year, $53 million contract with the Houston Rockets. The first two seasons of the contract are completely guaranteed; the third and fourth
years are not, and there is a player option in the fourth year. The addition of a valuable three-and-D wing to the Rockets’ lineup enhances both their defense and three-point shooting. However, just months after signing, Dorian underwent surgery for an ankle injury, leaving Houston without one of their best defenders to begin this season.
Since then, the Rockets haven’t given many updates on his condition. The Rockets have not provided a timetable for when the seasoned forward would play, but head coach Ime Udoka informed Michael Shapiro of SI.com on October 18 that Finney-Smith was behind schedule in his recuperation. Until the Rockets announce that Finney-Smith has resumed practicing, take him on a week-to-week basis.
Houston had one of the best defensive records in the league last season (≈ 110.8 DRTG, according to StatMuse), and the organization anticipates further defensive improvement after his return. For instance, DFS’s on-court teams had considerably higher net ratings when he played for other teams. This implies that he strengthens both ends, but particularly the defensive end.
Thankfully, it appears that Dorian’s absence is becoming less of a concern as Houston’s defense is now at 113.5 according to StatMuse, putting them at 10th best. However, this team will be able to reach another level defensively after his return. Smith’s defensive IQ aids in planning rotations and switches on a young team, something Houston finds difficult to do when he is not playing alongside veteran leadership for a team that outside of Kevin Durant, has not made many deep postseason runs. Udoka’s defense is mostly on toughness and switching. Because Finney-Smith is suited for that style, the Rockets are forced to play more drop or zone coverages when he isn’t there. Houston’s defense at the point of attack should improve once he returns.
Hopefully, Dorian can return soon and provide yet another addition to an already competent Rocket’s defense. You can catch the Houston Rockets Wednesday night as they take on the Washington Wizards in Houston at 7:00 Central on Space City Home Network or NBA League Pass.
