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Houston Rockets · The Houston Rockets’ young core took another big step forward in 2022-23. Although the franchise won 22 games and missed the postseason for the third straight year, developmental strides were evident. Jalen Green — the second pick in the 2021 draft — increased his scoring average nearly five points to 22.1 per game while also seeing bumps in rebounds, steals and assists in his 76 starts. Green is one of four players in league history to post five games of at least 40 points before the age of 22. Two of the team’s first-year players, Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason, each were selected to the All-Rookie Second Team. Smith Jr. averaged 12.8 points and 7.2 rebounds in 79 starts, while Eason produced 9.3 points and 6.0 rebounds per night while playing in all 82 games. Eason showcased his grit and toughness when he grabbed 12 offensive rebounds in just 19 minutes on February 1. Kevin Porter Jr. posted a career-best 19.2 points per game in his fourth season, while second-year center Alperen Şengün was a revelation in averaging 14.8 points and 9.0 rebounds across 75 games, posting a double-double in 29 of them. Şengün recorded two triple-doubles in his age-20 season, becoming the youngest player in franchise history to record one and the youngest center in NBA history to post multiple triple-doubles before the age of 21. In his third season, Kenyon Martin Jr. set career-highs in most statistical categories, further emphasizing the fact that the Rockets are young, talented and rapidly improving. · State of Mint · State of Mint