Jackson Gatlin here, the host of the daily Locked On Rockets podcast, with your daily Locked On Rockets newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Rockets and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Alperen Senguns Leads The Way & Houston Rockets Defense CLAMPS Golden State Warriors In NBA Cup Win
Houston Rockets Triumph Over Warriors: A Defensive Showcase
The Houston Rockets have finally broken their losing streak against the Golden State Warriors, marking the most significant victory in the Ime Udoka era. This win, which propels the Rockets to the NBA Cup Semifinals in Las Vegas, was a testament to their defensive prowess and the standout performances of key players like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun.
A Defensive Masterclass
The Rockets defense was the cornerstone of their victory, especially in the final minutes of the game. Despite struggling offensively, shooting a paltry 6-for-27 from downtown, the team managed to hold the Warriors scoreless for the last three minutes and three seconds. This defensive intensity was crucial in overcoming a seven-point deficit late in the game.
Jonathan Kuminga’s corner three seemed to seal the game for the Warriors, but the Rockets defense had other plans. They forced back-to-back shot clock violations and capitalized on a crucial turnover by Draymond Green. Fred VanVleet’s timely three-pointer and Sengun’s decisive move against Kevon Looney were pivotal in turning the tide.
Jalen Green’s Defining Moment
Jalen Green’s hustle play, diving for a loose ball and securing it under pressure with less than 10 seconds to play, was the highlight of his young career, underscoring his growth and commitment to the team’s identity under Udoka. Green’s subsequent free throws were the final nails in the Warriors coffin, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Alperen Sengun carried the load offensively on a night where points were hard to come by, delivering an All-Star caliber performance against Draymond Green. Sengun’s 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists were everything you want out of your star player and EASILY his best performance against the Warriors. His ability to navigate the Golden State defense and make critical plays in high-pressure situations highlighted his future as a star.
The Rockets victory was not just about individual brilliance but also about the collective effort and strategic decisions made by the team. Their ability to adapt and execute defensively against a formidable opponent like the Warriors speaks volumes about their potential moving forward.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Houston 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 All-Star night against Draymond Green
- Steve Kerr’s reaction to the game’s final moments
- The Rockets upcoming matchup against the OKC Thunder in Las Vegas
A common refrain about Spike Lee movies is that the city of New York feels like a living, breathing character. It has a presence in his films beyond that of a typical urban backdrop. It has dialogue; it impacts events.
Well, the Knicks crowd, amplified by the presence of Gotham villain Trae Young, felt three-dimensional in this NBA Cup quarterfinal, moaning, groaning, and cheering every time the ball ricocheted off a body part or players tumbled to the ground. It felt like it could change the events on the court, albeit with little control, like a player tilting a pinball machine. Even from my couch, I could feel the energy pulsing from the screen.
The atmosphere was electric; the quality of play was suspect. I’m not sure I’d let my loved ones watch, but for a specific breed of basketball fan (like the one who subscribes to this newsletter), it was gloriously grimy.
It was a miracle either of these teams hit triple-digits. The ball spent more time squirting out of rugby scrum-style dog piles than it did going through nets. The Knicks posted their lowest offensive rating of the season; the Hawks’ two best players, Jalen Johnson and Trae Young, combined for 43 points on 42 shots. Atlanta started the game 1-for-10 from deep, while New York had a stretch where they missed 12 straight triples.
In the end, however, it was Trae Young rolling phantom dice on the Knicks’ logo to celebrate going to Vegas.
The Hawks defense might be legit. Young is an easy target, but he also suckers teams into getting out of their offense to try and attack him, leaving them vulnerable to the swarm of kinetic, lengthy athletes that are standing by to help at a moment’s notice. Dyson Daniels chewed Jalen Brunson up (14 points on 15 shots), using a toothpick to get every last morsel.
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
Celebrate The Houston Rockets narrowly defeated the Golden State Warriors 91-90, with Alperen Sengun leading the charge in a thrilling finish. Sengun’s heroics capped off a memorable victory. (The Dream Shake)
Rumor Speculation is swirling as the Houston Rockets might target a point guard using the Suns’ pick in the upcoming draft. Boogie Fland from Arkansas is a potential choice. (Sports Illustrated)
Fans Charles Barkley had strong words for the Houston Rockets even after their win over the Warriors, expressing his disappointment in the team’s performance. Hear his critique and join the discussion. (Sports Illustrated)
Roster Houston Rockets veterans are playing a pivotal role in the team’s current season, driving both performance and leadership on the court. Discover their impact and contributions. (Sports Illustrated)
Replay The Rockets stunned the Warriors with an unconscionable foul in the wildest finish of the season, advancing to the NBA Cup semifinals. This unexpected victory has ignited excitement. (CBS Sports)
Rumor What is the league doing to address referee gambling concerns, and how effective can safeguards be? (Front Office Sports)
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Fantasy Cheat Sheet
A Kawhi Leonard Update & A Fantasy Basketball News Catchup
Nov 20, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) looks on from the bench in the first half against the Orlando Magic at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Kawhi Leonard’s Uncertain Return
Kawhi Leonard’s return remains a topic of speculation. Recent reports suggest that his comeback isn’t imminent, leaving fantasy managers in a bind. If you’re holding onto Leonard, patience is key, but be prepared for a potentially lengthy wait.
Jimmy Butler Trade Rumours
The rumour mill is buzzing with talk of a potential Jimmy Butler trade. While speculation is rife, it’s essential to remember that these rumours often don’t materialise. The complexities of NBA trades, including salary cap constraints and team dynamics, make it challenging to predict outcomes. Instead of getting caught up in the hype, focus on the players currently delivering consistent performances. If Butler does get traded, assess the situation then, but for now, it’s best to concentrate on tangible fantasy assets.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast:
- The impact of Mitchell Robinson’s injury on the Knicks’ rotation - Evaluating Max Strus’s fantasy value upon his return - Donovan Clingan’s potential role with the team - The latest on Fred VanVleet’s shooting struggles and assist numbers - A look at the upcoming matchups and their fantasy implications
Stay ahead of the game by keeping these insights in mind as you navigate the ever-changing landscape of NBA fantasy basketball.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Rockets podcasts.
How Alperen Sengun & Houston Rockets Matchup Vs Golden State Warriors This Season | NBA Cup Preview Can the Rockets break their 15-game losing streak against the Warriors in the NBA Cup Quarterfinals? With star players like Steph Curry and Alperen Sengun in the spotlight, this matchup promises high-stakes action and strategic showdowns.
Houston Rockets Offense: Jalen Green Being Held Back? + Ime Udoka On Alperen Sengun’s Slow Starts Analyzing the impact of Fred VanVleet on Jalen Green’s performance, Alperen Sengun’s efficiency challenges, and the team’s overall offensive structure. How can the Rockets improve?
Jalen Green Drops 31 & Amen Thompson Shines As Houston Rockets Get Back On Track Vs LA Clippers Breaking down the Rockets win against the Clippers, how Jalen Green’s impressive 31-point performance and Amen Thompson’s versatile contributions powered the Rockets to the win, why Alperen Sengun’s box score doesn’t tell the full story, the STAY READY CREW holding it down and more.
