Rockets rocked as Sengun sidelined and Brooks returns to Houston in Durant trade aftermath
The Houston Rockets entered Friday night’s game with an impressive 14-5 record, following a commanding victory against the Sacramento Kings. This matchup marked the start of a brief two-game homestand, as December will see the Rockets hitting the road extensively, including a highly anticipated Christmas primetime showdown against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Dillon Brooks’ Return to Houston
As the Rockets prepared to face the Phoenix Suns, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation—not just for the game, but for the return of Dillon Brooks. This was Brooks’ first appearance back in Houston since the offseason trade that sent him and Jalen Green to Phoenix in exchange for superstar Kevin Durant. The narrative surrounding Brooks added an extra layer of intrigue to an already pivotal matchup.
Sengun’s Absence Due to Illness
As the day progressed, however, the Rockets faced a significant setback. News broke earlier on Friday that Alperen Sengun was likely to miss the game due to illness. Head coach Ime Udoka provided updates pregame, confirming Sengun’s absence and also noting that Steven Adams would not play in the following evening’s game against the Dallas Mavericks. For the Rockets, losing Sengun—a key player in their lineup—raised concerns about their depth and strategy against a formidable Suns team.
Durant’s Unselfish Play
Despite the looming challenges, the Rockets’ recent victory over the Kings was fueled by Kevin Durant’s stellar performance, which included eight assists and no turnovers. This unselfish play is often overlooked but is a critical aspect of Durant’s game. When asked about Durant’s contributions, Udoka emphasized how the forward transcends the typical role of a scorer, showcasing a well-rounded skill set that elevates the entire team.
As the Rockets geared up for an important matchup, the absence of Sengun and the return of Brooks served as compelling storylines, setting the stage for a dramatic encounter on the hardwood.
