Rockets Depth Shines in Gritty Win Over Hawks
The Houston Rockets managed to pull off a hard-fought victory against the Atlanta Hawks, showcasing the depth and resilience of their roster. Despite the challenges of playing on the second night of a back-to-back, the Rockets “Stay Ready” crew stepped up when it mattered most.
Stay Ready Crew Steps Up
In a game where both teams appeared sluggish, the Rockets bench players made a significant impact. With key players like Steven Adams and Tari Eason out, Jae’Sean Tate and others filled the void admirably. Tate was flawless, scoring 16 points on 6-of-6 shooting and tying for the team-high plus-minus of +15. His energy and hustle were crucial, providing the Rockets with much-needed momentum.
Jock Landale also contributed effectively, bringing energy at the center position with 4 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. Aaron Holiday added 8 points and 4 assists, offering stability during crucial stretches. Cam Whitmore, returning from illness, was active defensively, breaking up plays and contesting shots, even if his scoring was limited.
The collective effort of these players underscores the importance of having a deep bench. Their ability to step up in challenging situations is invaluable, especially during grueling stretches of the season. The Rockets depth not only helped secure this win but also highlighted the potential for long-term success.
Jalen Green’s Mixed Performance
Jalen Green’s performance was a roller coaster, reflecting both his potential and areas needing improvement. He finished with 25 points, but his seven turnovers were a glaring issue. Green found his rhythm in the second and third quarters, scoring 11 and 12 points respectively, but struggled in the final quarter with only two points.
His shooting was inconsistent, particularly from beyond the arc, where he went 1-of-9. Despite this, Green contributed with seven rebounds and a couple of steals, showing his ability to impact the game in other ways. However, his ball-handling remains a concern, especially against tough defenders like Dyson Daniels, who challenged him throughout the game.
Green’s development as a lead guard hinges on improving his handle and decision-making under pressure. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, consistency in crunch time is essential for him to fulfill his role as a closer. The Rockets will need Green to refine these aspects of his game to maximize their potential in tight contests.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Rockets strategies and player performances, tune into the Locked On Rockets podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Rockets Podcast:
- Alperen Sengun’s response to being benched and his impact in the second half
- The significance of free-throw shooting in close games
- Why Jae’Sean Tate deserves to be a long-term piece
