The Rockets now stand as arguably the deepest team in basketball,” The Athletic’s Kelly Iko writes as part of his offseason grade (A) for Houston.

The Rockets’ ability to contend, in the truest sense, may hang more on the growth of their young players than whatever Kevin Durant gives them.” ...

I’m more physical, more decisive, (and) stronger with the basketball,” Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. says of his offseason points of emphasis.