Houston Rockets navigate turbulent December filled with blown leads and officiating controversies
The Houston Rockets have had a December to remember, albeit for all the wrong reasons. With a league-low 25 games played so far, the Rockets’ schedule has been anything but traditional. Initially anticipated to have one of the easier months, Houston has stumbled to a 4-4 record, leaving fans and analysts scratching their heads.
Disappointing Losses
Among the more troubling moments was a shocking defeat against the New Orleans Pelicans, where the Rockets squandered a staggering 25-point lead. In a league where holding such a margin is often a comfortable cushion, the Rockets’ inability to secure a win was a glaring misstep.
Another loss came against the Denver Nuggets, a game marred by controversial officiating that left Houston’s head coach, Ime Udoka, visibly frustrated. His outburst earned him a $25,000 fine, underscoring the intensity of the situation. In that matchup, Nikola Jokic delivered a standout performance, notching a game-high 39 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists, even after fouling out. Such performances highlight the challenges the Rockets face in competing against elite players under difficult circumstances.
Redemption Against the Nuggets
Fast forward to their rematch with the Nuggets, and the Rockets managed to flip the script, emerging victorious. Jokic, while still impactful, was not at his peak performance, scoring 25 points on 9-of-20 shooting, along with seven rebounds and five assists. Despite the turnover and foul struggles he faced, he still captured the attention of peers. Kevin Durant, after the game, lauded Jokic as one of the top players in the league, saying, “One of the top ten players, top five players that I’ve ever seen play basketball. That’s how much respect I got for these dudes.” Durant’s remarks reflect the respect Jokic commands, not just for his statistics but also for his approach to the game.
Jokic’s Season Highlights
On the season, Jokic is averaging an impressive 32.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 8 assists, showcasing his all-around game with a shooting efficiency of 49.3% from the field and 47.6% from beyond the arc. His contributions, however, come with a caveat of 4.3 turnovers and 5.3 fouls per game, indicating areas for improvement.
Looking Ahead
The Rockets will look to build on their victory over the Nuggets as they prepare to face the Sacramento Kings tonight at 9 p.m. CT. With a current record of 17-8, Houston sits fifth in the competitive Western Conference, and securing a consecutive win would be vital as they navigate the remainder of the season. As they continue to refine their game and address the setbacks of December, the Rockets remain a team to watch in the unfolding narrative of this NBA season.
