Rockets’ Rebounding Surge Sets Stage for Potential Top Seed
The Houston Rockets are turning heads in the NBA with a remarkable resurgence, showcasing some of the most dynamic two-way basketball in the league. After a shaky start that saw them drop their first two games, the Rockets have rebounded with an impressive 16-4 run, bringing their season record to 16-6 as they prepare to face the Denver Nuggets.
Defensive and Offensive Prowess
Currently, Houston ranks second in defensive efficiency while boasting the fourth-best offensive rating in the league. Their success on the boards has been particularly noteworthy, driven by the towering presence of Steven Adams and Alperen Sengun. The Rockets are leading the league with an astounding 41.5% offensive rebounding percentage, marking the highest rate since the NBA began tracking play-by-play data in the 1996-97 season. This prowess on the glass has not only fueled their offensive opportunities but has also propelled them into the upper echelon of NBA power rankings.
As noted in the latest analysis, “The Rockets continue to have the highest offensive rebounding percentage in the 30 seasons for which we have play-by-play data (41.5%), and their 53.8% on Thursday was the highest single-game mark for any team this season.” This relentless effort has positioned Houston back into the top three of the power rankings, with a notable jump following the Los Angeles Lakers’ recent struggles.
Emerging Talents
Among the standout players is Reed Sheppard, who has emerged as one of the league’s most improved talents. His effective field goal percentage has soared from 45.2% last season to an impressive 60.7%, marking the most significant improvement among 224 players with considerable shooting attempts. Sheppard is currently averaging 12.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.6 steals, all while shooting a remarkable 48-44-71. His contributions have been pivotal as he continues to make his mark on both ends of the court.
Upcoming Challenge Against Denver
With the Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder currently ahead in the power rankings, the Rockets have a prime opportunity to assert themselves in their upcoming game against Denver. After a narrow three-point loss to the Nuggets on November 21, a victory in this rematch would not only even the season series but could also propel the Rockets to the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference.
Adding to the intrigue, Houston may benefit from the return of Tari Eason, who is listed as questionable due to an oblique injury. The 6-foot-8 forward has been sidelined since November 14 but averages 11.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game, leading the team with a stellar three-point shooting percentage of 50.9%. His potential return could provide a significant boost as the Rockets look to solidify their standing in a competitive Western Conference.
As the Rockets prepare for this crucial matchup, their mix of tenacity on the boards and evolving talent could very well reshape the playoff landscape this season.
