Why Ime Udoka Is Not The Reason The Rockets Are Underperforming

BusinessSportsMoneyWhy Ime Udoka Is Not The Reason The Rockets Are UnderperformingByMat Issa,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Mat Issa has covered the NBA at-large since 2021. Follow AuthorApr 24, 2026, 09:20am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 12: Head coach Ime Udoka of the Houston Rockets looks on during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at Toyota Center on April 12, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)Getty ImagesAfter coming into the series a heavy favorite against the depleted Los Angeles Lakers, the Houston Rockets are facing a 0-2 hole heading into Game 3. Game 1’s loss was semi-defensible, as Houston was without their leading scorer, Kevin Durant.However, The Slim Reaper returned in Game 2, and yet the Rockets were still abysmal offensively – posting a 105.6 offensive rating. As analysts will do, the media has been frying head coach Ime Udoka for seemingly underperforming thus far. One comment from The Ringer’s Zach Lowe has really gained some traction: Now, people are questioning Udoka’s ability to guide the Rockets to the next level, with some even speculating whether or not he should remain the coach after this season. I’m here to tell those people that Udoka is not only a great coach, but he’s also not the reason the Rockets are struggling right now. MORE FOR YOUIme Udoka Is A Good CoachAs former NBA player Jeremy Lin highlighted in a recent Instagram reel (did you know he has 2.2 million followers on Instagram?), part of what makes a good coach is their ability to concoct smart plays in after timeout situations (ATOs). This season, Udoka is first among all coaches in ATO effi...