Houston Rockets topple Lakers as Eason and Thompson shine on defense
The Houston Rockets delivered a stunning upset against the Los Angeles Lakers, a formidable opponent currently positioned higher in the Western Conference standings. This victory was pivotal for the Rockets, who are striving to regain momentum after a series of disappointing losses to some of the West’s lesser teams. Their tendency to triumph over elite competition while stumbling against weaker squads is a pattern the Rockets will need to address as the season progresses.
Inconsistencies plague the Rockets
The rollercoaster nature of Houston’s performance poses a significant obstacle to their climb up the standings. Identifying and rectifying these inconsistencies is crucial for the Rockets. Much of their reliance on the tough shot-making abilities of Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun complicates matters, particularly when opposing defenses focus their efforts on containing these key players.
While recent games have seen a resurgence from Amen Thompson in terms of scoring, the young guard has struggled to maintain a steady offensive impact throughout the season. His backcourt mate, Reed Sheppard, has also found opportunities limited, despite showcasing flashes of brilliance earlier in the year. Jabari Smith Jr. has made strides as a shooter, yet he has yet to evolve into the elite perimeter threat the team envisioned.
This inconsistency in offensive output places the Rockets at a disadvantage compared to other Western Conference contenders. They possess the talent to compete, but their fluctuating scoring has left them vulnerable.
Defensive resurgence with Eason and Thompson
The recent return of Tari Eason has injected new life into the Rockets’ defense, allowing him and Thompson to form a dynamic duo that disrupts opposing offenses. Their combined efforts on the defensive end could be the key to establishing the consistency the team desperately needs. While Houston has the offensive firepower to keep pace with most teams, bolstering their defense to match their offensive highs will be vital for sustained success.
As the Rockets look to find their rhythm, they must improve their efficiency in creating and finishing at the rim. Thompson, despite being one of the league’s most explosive athletes, has faced challenges with his finishing. Similarly, Sengun is often left to navigate difficult shots against some of the league’s top big men, relying on mid-range attempts or his crafty skills to create scoring opportunities.
The road ahead for the Rockets
Relying solely on mid-range shots from Durant and Sengun is not a sustainable strategy for the Rockets. For the team to elevate their play and achieve greater consistency, they must intensify their efforts on both ends of the court. As they continue to refine their game, the Rockets have the potential to rise in the standings and solidify their position as a competitive force in the Western Conference.
