With a roster largely comprised of four first-round rookies from the 2021 draft and a third-year starter at point guard lacking prior NBA experience in that role, 2021-22 was projected as a rebuilding season for head coach Stephen Silas and the young Houston Rockets.
Ultimately, that’s exactly how it played out, as Houston finished with the league’s worst record (20-62) for a second consecutive season. That distinction guarantees a top-five pick in the 2022 NBA draft.
There were plenty of individual bright spots throughout the season, headlined by the development of rookie guard Jalen Green and his historic 30-point scoring streak near its finish. But as a team, Houston ranked at or near the bottom of the league in many statistical categories, which is to be expected when accounting for their lowly record.
Here’s a look at where the 2021-22 Rockets stacked up relative to the league’s 30 teams in several marquee categories, along with some possible silver linings as Houston eyes growth in the years ahead.