Rockets Make a Statement Against Western Conference Rivals
The Houston Rockets have made headlines with back-to-back victories over two formidable opponents in the Western Conference playoffs—the Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors. What makes these wins particularly striking is that the Rockets achieved them without their star player, Hall of Fame scorer Kevin Durant. This unexpected success comes after the team had struggled to secure wins against conference contenders, even when Durant was in the lineup.
Rising Stars Shine Without Durant
In the absence of Durant, Alperen Sengun has emerged as the undisputed leader of the Rockets’ offense. His ability to create scoring opportunities has proven invaluable. Sengun’s presence on the court not only draws defenders but also facilitates open shots for his teammates, including Jabari Smith Jr. and Reed Sheppard. Both players have taken full advantage of Sengun’s playmaking, consistently hitting their outside shots and contributing significantly to the Rockets’ scoring efforts.
Sheppard, in particular, has been a revelation during Durant’s brief hiatus. His development has become a focal point for the Rockets this season, as he showcases his scoring prowess and offensive versatility. With the ability to find his spots and create his own shot, Sheppard has effectively filled the gap left by Durant’s absence. His offensive contributions have been instrumental in ensuring that the Rockets remain competitive.
Emerging Roles in Houston’s Offense
Amen Thompson has also benefitted from Sheppard’s rise, taking on a less demanding role as the lead ball handler. Thompson has adapted well as an off-ball guard, often positioning himself near the basket to capitalize on quick scoring opportunities. While he continues to gain confidence in his ball-handling abilities, he is not yet at the point where he can consistently orchestrate the offense. Nevertheless, his growth has been a positive sign for the Rockets.
Rebounding as a Key to Success
A constant in the Rockets’ game plan has been their elite rebounding, which remained effective even in the absence of Steven Adams. Clint Capela has stepped up his performance after a slow start to the season, contributing to Houston’s dominance on the boards. This strong rebounding effort has been crucial in securing victories against quality opponents—a testament to the team’s resilience and determination.
Preparing for the Future
While the Rockets have shown they can compete without Durant, the question remains how they will fare when he returns. This experience could prove beneficial for the team as they prepare for future challenges. The newfound confidence and roles solidified during this stretch could serve as a foundation for the Rockets as they aim for a deeper playoff run in the competitive Western Conference.
