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Alperen Sengun & Fred VanVleet Two-Man Game Excels In Houston Rockets Blowout Win Over Wemby & Spurs
Houston Rockets Dominant Performance Against the Spurs: A Breakdown
The Houston Rockets showcased an impressive display of basketball prowess in their recent matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. From the opening tip-off, the Rockets defense was relentless, setting the tone for a commanding victory. Fred VanVleet and Alperen Sengun were pivotal in reigniting their two-man game, a piece of the Rockets puzzle that had been missing throughout the start of this season. Their synergy on the court was reminiscent of last year’s successful plays, providing a much-needed boost to the team’s offensive dynamics.
Defensive Mastery and Offensive Execution
The Rockets defense was a standout, forcing 20 turnovers and converting them into 20 points. This defensive intensity was crucial in establishing an early lead, holding the Spurs to just 38 points by halftime. The Rockets ability to maintain pressure on the Spurs was evident, with players like VanVleet disrupting plays and setting the pace for the rest of the team. The elite defense was contagious, as the entire squad seemed to feed off the energy, leading to a cohesive and effective performance.
Offensively, the Rockets were firing on all cylinders. The two-man game between VanVleet and Sengun was a highlight, with both players finding their rhythm and contributing significantly to the team’s scoring. VanVleet’s surprising ability to get downhill and score in the paint added a new dimension to his game, while Sengun’s touch around the rim was back in full force. This combination not only bolstered the Rockets offense but also inspired their defensive efforts, creating a well-rounded and formidable team performance.
Jalen Green’s Aggressive Play and Team Dynamics
Jalen Green’s aggressive approach was another key factor in the Rockets success. His willingness to challenge Victor Wembanyama at the rim and his ability to maneuver around defenders showcased his growth and confidence. Green’s decision-making has improved, and his ability to play off the ball has opened up new opportunities for him and his teammates. This development is crucial for the Rockets, as it adds another layer to their offensive strategy and makes them less predictable.
The Rockets depth was also on display, with contributions from multiple players. Seven Rockets scored in double figures, highlighting the team’s balanced attack. This depth is a testament to the team’s development and the coaching staff’s ability to utilize their roster effectively. The Rockets are not just relying on their stars but are getting significant contributions from their bench, making them a more versatile and dangerous team.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Houston Rockets strategies and performances, tune into the Locked On Rockets podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Rockets Podcast:
- The impact of Fred VanVleet’s early game scoring and its sustainability
- Alperen Sengun’s perimeter defense and its implications for the Rockets
- The emergence of the “Terror Twins” and their influence on the game
- Jalen Green’s evolving role and its effect on team dynamics
- Bench contributions and the depth of the Rockets’ roster
We’re about 10% of the way through the season, which means we’ve seen enough of the rookie class to make iron-clad judgments on them that will never change. First impression, last impression.
Kidding, of course; sample sizes are still small, and both we and the debutants themselves are learning a ton. Watching this class take their first baby-giraffe steps in the league has been a blast, so I’ve selected four rookies worth discussing.
1) Zach Edey, Memphis Grizzlies
Edey’s performance has been predictably up-and-down. On the one hand, he’s started to figure out how to defend without fouling. After infamously fouling out in just 15 minutes in his NBA debut, Edey hasn’t accrued more than three infractions in any of his last six games (although he did pick up three in just 15 minutes last night). Opponents are shooting just 55.6% against him at the rim, a better number than Anthony Davis or Rudy Gobert, and they take fewer attempts at the rim when he’s on the court. There’s a slight deterrence factor already at play.
Edey had a game where he went 11-for-12 from the field, but most of his damage has been done on putbacks and dump-offs. He has only generated 13 points on his 21 post-up possessions, a terrible mark, and his beloved hook shot has abandoned him.
Most peculiarly, a man I predicted might lead the league in screen assists has not been nearly as impactful a screener as I expected. Part of that is the Grizzlies leaning a bit away from the pick-and-roll-centric attack they’ve heavily featured in the past, and part is on some junior-high-school-level chemistry with Ja Morant (see here, where Edey whiffs on the screen and then can’t get to the lob quick enough). That said, he’s already mastered the rolling Gortat screen, a key tool for creating space for Morant. Now, he just needs more reps.
Mike Shearer (@bballispoetry) has written about the NBA full-time since 2021 at various and sundry places. For more from Mike, check out his Substack bestseller, Basketball Poetry, where he uses unnecessary metaphors and the occasional haiku to discuss the NBA’s happenings with an analytical lens.
Home and Away
Analysis Amen Thompson and Tari Eason’s impressive synergy may position them as the Rockets’ best duo this season. (Sports Illustrated)
Odds The Rockets face the San Antonio Spurs next, with key insights into betting odds and game expectations. (Sports Illustrated)
Must Read Over the years, the NBA has learned to embrace activism and social justice. Read more. (TIME)
Legacy Reflecting on Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s impact — here’s how he changed the rules for Black athletes. (National Endowment for the Humanities)
Analysis How did Sterling Brown get the NBA to listen to its players? (The Daily Beast)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Zaccharie Risacher’s Big Night Brings Fantasy Basketball Questions
Atlanta Hawks forward Zaccharie Risacher (10) shoots over New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges (25) during the second half at State Farm Arena.|Photo by Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
In the world of fantasy basketball, player performances can fluctuate wildly, and Wednesday’s games were no exception. While Zach Edey had previously dazzled fans with a standout performance against the Nets, his recent outing was less than stellar. Facing tougher competition, Edey managed just eight points and seven rebounds in 15 minutes. This game served as a reminder that while Edey has potential, consistency is key, and fantasy managers should be cautious about overcommitting to him based on a single strong performance.
On the flip side, Zaccharie Risacher delivered a performance that turned heads and could have significant fantasy implications. Starting for the Atlanta Hawks, Risacher exploded for 33 points, seven rebounds, three assists, three steals, and two blocks. His shooting was on point, and he contributed across multiple categories, making him a hot commodity in fantasy leagues. With De’Andre Hunter still sidelined, Risacher’s role in the starting lineup seems secure for now, and his ability to fill the stat sheet makes him a valuable asset.
Risacher’s breakout game highlights the importance of monitoring player roles and opportunities. While his previous performances were inconsistent, this game showcased his potential when given the chance. Fantasy managers should consider adding Risacher, especially if he continues to see significant minutes and usage.
As always, staying updated on player performances and team dynamics is crucial for fantasy success. Keep an eye on how these players develop in the coming games, and adjust your fantasy strategies accordingly. For more insights and analysis, be sure to follow the latest episodes of the Locked On Fantasy Basketball podcast.
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Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Rumors: Will The Houston Rockets Make A Move? Pros, Cons & More The NBA is buzzing with rumors that Giannis Antetokounmpo might be on the move, and the Houston Rockets are emerging as a potential landing spot. What would it take for the Rockets to secure the Greek Freak?
Alperen Sengun DOMINATES, Jalen Green CLUTCH In Houston Rockets Win Vs New York Knicks Breaking down how Sengun dazzled with 25 points, 14 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 blocks, while Green delivered crucial plays in the final minutes. The episode explores Amen Thompson’s defensive prowess, particularly against Jalen Brunson, and the effective lineup featuring Reed Sheppard, Tari Eason, and Sengun that outscored the Knicks by 9 points.
Tari Eason Ignites Houston Rockets INSANE 31-Point Comeback Vs Golden State Warriors The Houston Rockets, led by Tari Eason’s career-high 27 points, mounted an incredible comeback against the Golden State Warriors after trailing by 31 points forcing overtime, but they narrowly lost 127-121. Strategic decisions by coach Ime Udoka, particularly his choice to stick with the bench unit during overtime.
