Amen Thompson’s Breakout Performance
Amen Thompson delivered a career-defining performance, leading the Houston Rockets to a thrilling 114-112 victory over the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Thompson’s game-winning floater was the highlight of his night, capping off an impressive stat line of 33 points on 13-of-19 shooting, 10 rebounds, four assists, a steal, and a block. This performance not only showcased his offensive prowess but also underscored the trust the Rockets coaching staff, led by Ime Udoka, has in him. Udoka specifically designed the final play for Thompson, allowing him to attack the Celtics defense and secure the win.
Thompson’s ability to exploit the Celtics defense was evident throughout the game. He effectively utilized the space given to him, often playing off the attention drawn by teammates Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun. His versatility was on full display, as he seamlessly transitioned between cutting to the basket and creating his own scoring opportunities. This game highlighted Thompson’s potential to become a future superstar, drawing comparisons to a hybrid of Russell Westbrook and Giannis Antetokounmpo with his blend of speed, strength, size, athleticism, and basketball IQ.
Dillon Brooks: The Villain’s Record Night
Dillon Brooks, affectionately known as “Dillon the Villain,” thrived in the hostile environment of TD Garden, tying a Houston Rockets franchise record with 10 three-pointers. Brooks’ sharpshooting was instrumental in the Rockets’ victory, as he finished with 36 points on 13-of-23 shooting. His ability to stretch the floor and capitalize on the Celtics defensive lapses provided the perfect complement to Thompson’s interior dominance.
Brooks’ performance was not just about his shooting; it was about his ability to embrace the role of the villain. The boos from the Boston crowd seemed to fuel his fire, as he confidently sank shot after shot. His offensive versatility was on full display, as he mixed in drives to the basket and mid-range jumpers, proving he’s more than just a 3-and-D player. Brooks’ ability to step up on a night when Green and Sengun struggled offensively was crucial for the Rockets.
Thompson and Brooks capitalzing on all the attention the Celtics defense was giving to both Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun was a key factor in the Rockets success. Their combined efforts allowed Houston to overcome offensive challanges from their usual heavy-hitters and secure a statement win. This victory not only highlighted the depth and versatility of the Rockets’ roster but also hinted at the team’s potential to compete with the league’s elite.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Rockets impressive win over the Celtics, tune into the Locked On Rockets podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Rockets Podcast:
- Celtics defensive strategy against Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun
- Ime Udoka’s crucial late-game substitutions
- The impact of Jabari Smith Jr.'s absence on the Rockets lineup
