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Alperen Sengun Two-Way Force & Amen Thompson CLUTCH Plays In Houston Rockets OT Win Vs Wolves
Houston Rockets Triumph in Overtime Thriller Against Timberwolves
The Houston Rockets have secured their spot in the knockout round of the NBA Cup with a thrilling 117-111 overtime victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This game was a testament to the grit and determination of the Rockets, showcasing standout performances from Alperen Sengun, Fred VanVleet, Jabari Smith Jr. and Amen Thompson.
Sengun and Thompson Shine
Alperen Sengun was pivotal in the Rockets success, especially in the second half. After a slow start, Sengun found his rhythm, scoring 20 of his 22 points after halftime. His defensive prowess was on full display, contributing three steals and three blocks, alongside a triple-double performance. Sengun’s ability to anchor the defense and facilitate the offense was crucial in building up the Rockets 18-point lead and eventually sealing the win later on when that lead evaporated.
Amen Thompson’s defensive contributions were equally significant. His ability to disrupt the Timberwolves offense, particularly in the closing moments of regulation and overtime, was a game-changer. Thompson’s key plays, including a drawn charge, crucial steal, and game-tying three-pointer helped the Rockets regain momentum and secure the victory.
VanVleet’s Leadership and Offensive Impact
Fred VanVleet stepped up as a leader, understanding the need to be an offensive threat, especially with Jalen Green’s ongoing struggles. VanVleet’s 27-point performance, including six three-pointers, was instrumental in keeping the Rockets competitive. Despite some moments of hero ball, VanVleet’s ability to hit critical shots under pressure was vital to the Rockets win.
The Rockets defensive strategy was also noteworthy, as they effectively contained Anthony Edwards, forcing him into difficult shots and limiting his impact. This collective defensive effort, led by Dillon Brooks and Jabari Smith Jr., was key in disrupting the Timberwolves rhythm and coming out on top.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the starting lineup shined bright, the bench unit faced challenges. Jalen Green’s performance was underwhelming, and the second unit struggled to find its identity. The lack of offensive cohesion and defensive stability highlighted areas for improvement. However, the potential for growth is evident, and adjustments, such as utilizing Jabari Smith Jr. as a backup center, could enhance the team’s dynamics.
The Rockets victory not only advances them in the NBA Cup but also positions them as a formidable team capable of overcoming adversity. With the potential to host a home game in the quarterfinals, the excitement continues to build for this young and promising squad.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Houston Rockets journey, tune into the Locked On Rockets podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Rockets Podcast:
- Analysis of Jalen Green’s struggles and potential solutions
- The impact of the Rockets bench performance
- Defensive strategies against top NBA players
- Upcoming challenges and opportunities for the Rockets
Nov 26, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier (2) shoots the basketball over Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis (9) during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro/Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Here’s the thing, Scary Terry has hops. At 30-years-old and with a decade of play under his belt, Terry Rozier can cut like a knife, shake loose defenders, deflect, drive, and kick the ball out to the wing on a layup with the court vision still 20/20. He shoots, too. Tidy jumpers, deep and swooning corner threes, tricky little one-handed layups, fastbreak two-handed deliveries, Rozier runs through them like a personal rolodex.
Perhaps it’s a good reminder, for you as much as me, that age really doesn’t have anything to do with it. For one, despite what we’re led to believe by watching NBA basketball and listening to people talk about it, 30 isn’t old. Besides age, there’s a more important personal factor: whether an athlete keeps up. NBA basketball gets pushed in new directions every season as competitive teams break the mold and not yet competitive teams try to keep up.
Optimization is an unfortunate word in our modern and decidedly capitalist lexicon, but it’s what good athletes do. If there’s a skill to develop, they figure out what it is. Giannis Antetokounmpo in the mid-range this season is a perfect and very successful example. The bigger thing these smaller improvements add up to are teams with a depth of different weapons to pull out against the seemingly unbeatable juggernauts at the top. Occasionally, front offices identify what their unique skillset or style of play can be — think the decidedly big Cleveland Cavaliers, or the micro, play-every-position, Thunder — and build toward it.
For an athlete like Rozier, who many were quick to call a Kyle Lowry 2.0 when he arrived in Miami, the improvisation he’s shown with the Heat was born out of necessity but also an aptitude for reading the room. The Heat are a workaholic organization with a next-man-up mentality they don’t just talk about as an inspirational soundbite, but is twined through the fibre of all that they do.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Analysis Is it time for the Rockets to bench Jabari Smith Jr. in favor of Tari Eason? A detailed analysis of their performances and potential impact on the team can be found here. (Sports Illustrated)
Preview The Rockets will face off against the 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center at 7:00 PM ET. Read the preview.(NBA)
Analysis The point guard position is in good hands. Shaun Powell takes stock of the position and what the future looks like. (NBA)
Opinion The NBA can tinker with the All-Star Game format all it wants, but there’s only one fix. (The Athletic, subscription required)
Feel Good What happens with the money collected from fines? How the league turns bad moments into good deeds. (SB Nation)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Another Lauri Markkanen Injury For Fantasy Basketball Managers To Digest
Nov 26, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz forward/center Lauri Markkanen (23) on the floor after a collision with San Antonio Spurs forward/center Victor Wembanyama (1) during the second half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images | Christopher Creveling/Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images
Injury Concerns and Player Updates
Joel Embiid’s ongoing knee issues are another significant concern. With a history of multiple meniscus surgeries, Embiid’s situation remains precarious. His recent absences highlight the risks associated with drafting him early in fantasy leagues. The high failure rate of such surgeries suggests that Embiid’s availability might be limited, making him a risky trade target.
Donovan Clingan’s grade 2 MCL sprain is also noteworthy. The Portland Trail Blazers plan to reevaluate him in two weeks, but this type of injury typically requires a longer recovery period. With Clingan sidelined, players like Ayton and Rob Williams are expected to see increased playing time, making Williams a valuable addition to fantasy rosters.
Lauri Markkanen’s Injury Impact
Lauri Markkanen’s recent knee injury adds another layer of complexity to fantasy basketball strategies. Markkanen, who has been dealing with back and knee issues, was helped off the court after a knee knock. While the injury doesn’t appear to be a severe ACL or MCL tear, it could sideline him for at least a week, if not longer. This development opens up opportunities for players like John Collins to step up and fill the void, potentially increasing their fantasy value.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Rockets podcasts.
Can Alperen Sengun & Houston Rockets Clinch NBA Cup Group Vs Anthony Edwards & Wolves? Explore the Rockets defensive prowess, led by a rejuvenated Tari Eason and the evolving skills of Alperen Sengun. Discover how Anthony Edwards remarkable three-point shooting could shift the Timberwolves strategy and more.
Dillon Brooks Dominates, Fred VanVleet & Jalen Green Struggle As Houston Rockets Go 1-1 Vs Blazers Explore the highs and lows of the Houston Rockets back-to-back matchups against the Portland Trail Blazers, breaking down Dillon Brook’s season high 28-point performance, Jalen Green’s inconsistent play and Fred VanVleet’s decision-making in crucial moments.
Alperen Sengun Makes History AGAIN & Jabari Finding His Shot As Houston Rockets Cruise Past Pacers The Houston Rockets showcased their defensive prowess, forcing 23 turnovers and securing a 130-113 victory against the Indiana Pacers as Alperen Sengun led the charge with a dominant 31-point performance, particularly excelling in the second half.
