While the Houston Rockets' deployment of the tallest starting lineup since the NBA began tracking starters has generated ample ballyhoo, their decision to eschew utilizing a traditional point guard could yield greater ramifications.

The Rockets, set to host the Detroit Pistons in their home opener on Friday, experienced mixed results with their XL lineup during a 125-124 double-overtime loss to the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday.

Third-year wing Amen Thompson, the de facto point guard with veteran Fred VanVleet out indefinitely due to a torn ACL, paired 18 points with five assists but committed four turnovers before departing with calf cramps.

Three others also recorded four turnovers apiece for the Rockets, who were guilty of 25 miscues while attempting a by-committ

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