Rockets Surge Back to Life with Sengun and Durant at the Helm
The Houston Rockets have turned the tide on their season after a rocky start, bouncing back from two early losses against formidable opponents. Initial doubts lingered over their ability to compete against playoff-caliber teams, particularly in the absence of a traditional point guard. However, the Rockets silenced their critics with a stunning victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, showcasing the prowess of a true MVP candidate.
Sengun and Durant: A Dynamic Duo
Instead of folding under pressure, Houston leaned on the creative playmaking of Alperen Sengun, who has emerged as a focal point of their offense. Meanwhile, Kevin Durant has stepped up, taking on more playmaking responsibilities than originally anticipated when he joined the roster. This unexpected partnership has proved to be a potent mix of scoring, playmaking, and defense, propelling the Rockets to a successful rebound.
The Rockets have successfully carried over many strengths from last season into this campaign. Tari Eason, Amen Thompson, and Steven Adams have once again formed a formidable trio, anchoring one of the league’s top offensive rebounding units. The defensive efforts of Thompson, Eason, and Jabari Smith Jr. are also noteworthy, as they are helping Houston transition from a sluggish start on that end of the floor back to its traditional elite defensive prowess.
Improvements Fueling Contender Aspirations
The Rockets’ early-season resurgence is attributed to several key improvements. Notably, shooting efficiency has seen a significant uptick. Enhanced spacing, smarter shot selection, and improved individual performances have collectively elevated their offensive game. The addition of Durant—as one of the most efficient shooters in NBA history—has undeniably bolstered their scoring capabilities. Moreover, Eason and Smith Jr. have both stepped up their shooting, contributing vital points when the team needs it most.
Reed Sheppard has emerged as a crucial player in bolstering Houston’s shooting percentage. Currently serving as a secondary ball handler and a reliable catch-and-shoot option, Sheppard’s role is pivotal. The Rockets envision him evolving into a primary ball handler, particularly in the wake of Fred VanVleet’s injury. However, for now, the chemistry among outside shooters is creating the necessary space for Sengun and Thompson to operate effectively in the paint.
Challenges Ahead as the Season Progresses
While the Rockets have found ways to navigate their early-season challenges, the absence of an elite ball handler could become a concern as the postseason approaches. This limitation was evident in their recent matchup against the San Antonio Spurs, where they struggled against a team that executed their game plan more effectively.
Despite these challenges, the Rockets have demonstrated why they are considered one of the elite teams in the NBA. Their ability to bounce back from early setbacks has re-established their presence as a contender in the Western Conference, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
