The Houston Rockets will treat tonight’s preseason matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans as a dress rehearsal for the regular season, according to head coach ime Udoka. this marks a shift in approach from previous preseason games, with rotations and minutes expected to more closely reflect what fans will see when the regular season tips off next week.Despite missing key players-Fred VanVleet (out for the season) and Dorian Finney-Smith (injured until after the regular season begins)-tonight’s game offers a crucial possibility for the Rockets to evaluate their lineup against a division rival. The team is also assessing the role of JD Davison, who has impressed during the preseason and is vying for a spot on the final roster. Following tonight’s contest, Houston has one remaining preseason game before beginning their season.
Udoka has indicated the team intends to approach both tonight’s and Thursday’s game in Atlanta against the Hawks with a focus on regular-season planning.
Currently, Jae’Sean Tate is sidelined with an ankle injury, and Dorian Finney-Smith is also out due to an ankle injury.
