NBA preseason preview: Rockets VS Hawks! The showdown between talented front lines, who is stronger and who is weak?

The Houston Rockets will usher in their first preseason game at home, and their opponent is the Atlanta Hawks with an upgraded lineup. The core highlight of this showdown focuses on the direct dialogue between the two teams' talented front lines. On one hand, the Rockets, which introduce superstars, and on the other hand, the Hawks, who have the new No. 1 pick, the collision between the training of the remaining formation and the running-in lineup adds suspense.

The Rockets' forward lineup is the biggest winner in the offseason. Durant, introduced by the 7 teams' big deal, is undoubtedly the core of combat power. The joining of this ten-time scoring king gives Houston instantly the confidence to compete for the championship. Durant is partnered with Jabbarry Smith, who has renewed his contract for 122 million yuan in 5 years. Last season's three-point shooting percentage of 45.5% showed efficient finishing ability. In addition, 3D player Finney Smith with a 44.1% three-point shooting percentage, forming a forward combination with both offense and defense. However, the Rockets will play in this battle with half a set of residual formations, with Finney Smith missing, and Durant's playing time may be strictly limited.

The Hawks' forward focuses on talent and vitality. The 24-year No. 1 pick Rissache will make his season debut. His performance of scoring 30+ four times in the rookie season confirms his scoring talent. He is partnered with Jaylen Johnson, who just signed a five-year contract of 150 million. Last season, the double-double data averaged 18.9 points and 10 rebounds per game demonstrates his all-round attributes, and the impact on both offense and defense cannot be underestimated. More importantly, the Hawks can line up all the main lineups, and the forward rotation depth is enough to deal with the Rockets' training lineup. The difference in offensive and defensive styles will make the game more and more direct. The Rockets have up to 10 people with a wingspan of 2.13 meters, and the oppressiveness on the defensive end is a nightmare for the opponent, but after point guard Van Vreet is reimbursed for the season, the offensive organization needs to rely on the connection between Durant and Shin Kyung. The Hawks have the league assist King Trae Young. His pick-and-roll tactics with new aid Porzingis can create a large number of open opportunities for the front line, and Daniels' stealing ability can further enhance the counterattack efficiency. The victory or defeat of the preseason is not the core. The Rockets need to use this game to examine Amen Thompson's backcourt adaptability, while the Hawks need to polish the chemistry between Rissache and the main lineup. The Hawks have more advantages in comprehensive lineup integrity and immediate combat power, but if the combination of Durant and Jabbarry Smith can show chemistry, the Rockets still have the possibility of winning. This front-line showdown will be the key touchstone of the two teams' journey in the new season.