Houston Rockets face clutch conundrum as non-star support dwindles behind Sengun and Durant
The Houston Rockets find themselves in a precarious situation as they look to their dynamic duo of Alperen Sengun and Kevin Durant to not only lead their offense but to also deliver in clutch moments. While the confidence in these two stars is palpable, the reality is that they cannot be expected to perform at an elite level every game. As the season progresses, it has become clear that Houston must develop reliable scoring options beyond their top players to navigate critical stretches when the offense falters.
The Pressure on Amen Thompson
Amen Thompson was heralded as the potential third option to support Sengun and Durant, yet his performance has been marked by hesitance and a lack of aggression. Tasked with facilitating the offense, Thompson has often appeared tentative, which has limited his scoring impact. When he plays decisively, Thompson has the ability to penetrate defenses and finish effectively at the rim. However, his struggles with touch around the basket and inconsistency since last year’s postseason raise concerns about his development as an NBA-level lead guard.
Despite these challenges, there remains hope for Thompson to evolve into an elite perimeter creator. Yet, the Rockets’ need for immediate support in clutch situations brings another player into the spotlight.
Rising Star: Reed Sheppard
Reed Sheppard has emerged as a potential solution to the Rockets’ offensive woes. Gaining confidence throughout the season, Sheppard has demonstrated his shooting prowess, proving to be a reliable distance shooter. His growth as a ball handler has also positioned him as someone who can temporarily lead the offense when needed.
Though Head Coach Ime Udoka is cautious about allowing Sheppard to start when the roster is fully available—largely due to defensive shortcomings—his contributions off the bench have been invaluable. Imagining the impact Sheppard could have alongside the established talents in the starting lineup is an intriguing prospect for Rockets fans.
Jabari Smith Jr.’s Potential
Jabari Smith Jr. is another key player in the Rockets’ quest for clutch scoring. His performance against the Denver Nuggets highlighted his ability to hit crucial shots at pivotal moments. However, despite showcasing improved on-ball skills, Smith Jr. has yet to reach a level where he can consistently create his own shot.
The Rockets are banking on the growth of their non-star players, hoping they can rise to the occasion when Sengun and Durant struggle. Currently, the team lacks a clear answer for who can step up and take charge in critical moments. As the season unfolds, developing these supporting players will be essential for Houston to thrive in tight games.
