On August 20, Beijing time, the well-known American media ClutchPoints (hereinafter referred to as CP) announced 10 bold predictions for the new season of the Rockets, they believe that Jalen Green is expected to be selected as an All-Star for the first time in his career, and Shepard can be selected as the best rookie, but the Rockets still failed to qualify for the playoffs. Here's what the forecast looks like –

Prediction 1: The Rockets are in the top 10 defensively for the second year in a row

The Rockets' offense will still experience growing pains, and if they want to win, they need to rely more on defense. Under Udoka's guidance, the Rockets' defense is expected to continue to escalate and become one of the best defensive teams in the league. CP boldly predicts that the Rockets will be in the top 10 in defensive efficiency for the second season in a row, and may even be in the top five.

Prediction 2: Green becomes a top-20 scorer in the league

Jalen Green, who is in the fourth season of his career, is favored to be a top 20 scorer in the league. Last season, he ranked 40th in the league in shots per game (16.2) and 54th in points per game (19.6). CP boldly predicts that Green will take on more offensive responsibilities in the new season, averaging more than 25 points per game with excellent athleticism and improved shooting performance.

Prediction 3: Green was named an All-Star for the first time

CP also boldly predicted that Green would have a chance to be named an All-Star for the first time next season, and even steal the limelight from Curry at Chase Center to become the All-Star Game MVP (note: this prediction is really bold enough).

Prediction 4: Shen Jing averages 18+10 per game in the contract year

Shen averaged 14.9 points, 7.9 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game in the first three seasons of his career, and his offensive ability and playmaking skills have become well-known in the league. As Shin enters his contract year, CP boldly predicts that he can average 18+10 double-doubles per game and solidify his position as one of the league's most promising big men.

Prediction 5: VanVleet becomes the assist leader

VanVleet averaged a career-high 8.1 assists per game last season, ranking seventh in the league. In the new season, he will likely focus more on organizing the offense, leaving the scoring task to Jalen Green and Shin Jing. CP's bold prediction of VanVleet becoming the league's assists leader next season has forced the Rockets to seriously consider whether to exercise his 44 million team option next summer.

Prediction 6: Dillon named to the All-Defensive Second Team

In the 2022-23 season, Dillon was named to the All-Defensive Second Team, and as Udoka rebuilds his reputation as a defensive powerhouse with the Rockets, Dillon is expected to continue to win new accolades in individual defense. CP boldly predicts that Dillon will be a defensive stalwart again, once again named to the All-Defensive Second Team, and his ability to defend multiple positions will be crucial to the Rockets' overall defense.

Prediction 7: Shepard is named Rookie of the Year

Shepard played well in this year's Summer League, averaging 20 points, 4.8 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 2.7 steals and 1.3 blocks per game, and he continued to learn from training with Trae Young in the offseason. CP boldly predicts that Shepard will be selected as Rookie of the Year, and his shooting and playmaking skills will significantly improve the Rockets' offense.

Prediction 8: Udoka will not be uncommon to eat tricks

The Rockets were the team with the most technical fouls last season and are expected to remain at the top of the rankings this season. Udoka is very demanding of the Rockets, and the mistakes of the young team will inevitably upset him. CP boldly predicts that Udoka will receive at least five technical fouls in the new season.

Prediction 9: Dillon leads the league in technical fouls

In terms of technical offenses, Udoka and Dillon are really a perfect match. Last season, Dillon ranked second in technical fouls, just behind the Mavericks' Doncic. In the offseason, the Mavericks brought in Klay and upgraded the roster, Doncic is expected to play more easily, and CP boldly predicts that Dillon will lead the league in the number of technical fouls in the new season.

Prediction 10: The Rockets still miss the playoffs

Last season, the Rockets improved significantly, eventually winning 41 games, but in the competitive West, that win rate wasn't enough to make the playoffs. Will they be able to return to the playoffs in the new season? CP boldly predicts that the Rockets will win more games, but still not enough to make the playoffs. They have the potential to qualify for the play-offs.