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.
Biggest Questions For Alperen Sengun & Houston Rockets Before Facing OKC Thunder | NBA Cup Preview
Houston Rockets vs. OKC Thunder: A Clash of Defensive Titans
As we gear up for the NBA Cup Semifinals, the Houston Rockets are set to face off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in what promises to be a thrilling matchup between two teams with intertwined histories and one of the best rivalries in the NBA. Both teams have shown remarkable defensive prowess this season, making this game a must-watch for basketball enthusiasts.
Thunder’s Defensive Evolution
The Thunder have undergone significant changes this season, primarily driven by the addition of seasoned players like Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein. These veterans have brought a level of physicality and toughness that has elevated the Thunder defense into all-time good territory. Despite being the youngest team in the NBA, their maturity on the court is evident. The Thunder’s defense is electrifying, with more steals than turnovers, showcasing their ability to harass opponents consistently.
Hartenstein’s presence has addressed the size concerns that plagued the Thunder last season. His ability to play alongside Chet Holmgren, once both are healthy, offers the Thunder a chance to field a true center throughout the game. This depth in the center position is a stark contrast to last year when they struggled without a reliable backup. Caruso’s defensive acumen has further solidified their backcourt, making the Thunder a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Rockets Offensive Strategy
On the other side, the Rockets offense revolves around Alperen Sengun. His versatility in offensive actions, whether as a screener or a playmaker, makes him the most consistent threat for Houston. While Fred VanVleet had an exceptional performance in their last meeting, dropping 38 points, it’s Sengun who remains the focal point of the Rockets offensive strategy. His ability to draw fouls and create opportunities is crucial for Houston’s success.
However, the Rockets face challenges against the Thunder’s swarming defense. Sengun’s decision-making will be tested, as he needs to make quick reads to counter the Thunder’s aggressive style. The Rockets ability to take care of the basketball, as evidenced by their low turnover rate, will be vital in neutralizing the Thunder’s defensive strengths.
Shea Gilgeous-Alexander: The Unstoppable Force
Shea Gilgeous-Alexander continues to be a standout performer for the Thunder. His offensive arsenal, filled with counters and fakes, makes him one of the most unguardable players in the league. As an MVP candidate, Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to lead the Thunder, even in the absence of Holmgren, is a testament to his skill and leadership. His efficiency and scoring prowess are key factors that could tip the scales in favor of the Thunder.
As we anticipate this high-stakes game, will the Rockets disciplined offense be enough against the Thunder’s relentless defense? Both teams are hungry for victory, and this matchup is set to be a defensive battle for the ages.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Rockets vs. Thunder matchup, tune into the Locked On Rockets podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Rockets Podcast:
- The impact of Alperen Sengun’s defensive improvements
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) in action against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at State Farm Arena. | Brett Davis/Brett Davis-Imagn Images
I was going to write about the NBA Cup semi-finals today but Milwaukee head coach, Doc Rivers, beat me to it by putting it all pretty succinctly with this:
“I mean, we’re gonna bring our wheelchairs to the cup because we have these three young teams. You know, everybody’s — Atlanta is young, Oklahoma is young, Houston is young. Then here comes the old Milwaukee Bucks, wheeling in. That’s what we are gonna be. We’re gonna just wheel in our wheelchairs and come in on our canes and see if we can just play some basketball. That’s what we are gonna do.”
So instead, let’s talk about superstars and trades. Not because any are going to be traded, but because the allure of the possibility of people like LeBron James and Jimmy Butler — people who create their own gravity — has once again hit peak saturation in NBA discourse.
The Heat floated the idea of a Butler trade, either directly or indirectly, and speculation over which team would make a ready destination followed suit. These things tend to go like dominoes — one of Butler’s favourite pastimes — but in terms of veracity, look no further than Butler’s own agent quashing the speculation. Yes, things have read as weirdly remiss in Miami, especially involving Butler, going back to team president Pat Riley’s end of season press conference. In it, Riley seemed to suggest the Heat were behind Butler so long as he was behind them. It’s a statement that should be self-evident, which is why it’s worth taking a second look at.
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
Rumor Speculation is mounting around Jimmy Butler and potential trade moves. Houston Rockets fans might find interest in how these rumors could impact team dynamics in the NBA trade market. (SB Nation)
Analysis The Houston Rockets gained valuable experience during their NBA Cup run. This journey has provided essential growth opportunities for the team’s young roster. (Sports Illustrated)
Preview The Rockets’ NBA Cup win over the Warriors bolstered their playoff case. This victory highlights their potential and determination in the race to the postseason. (Sports Illustrated)
Ranking The Houston Rockets’ position in the latest NBA Power Rankings is analyzed as the NBA Cup reaches its semifinals. Their current standing reflects recent performances and future potential. (Bleacher Report)
Replay The NBA’s Last Two Minute report confirms the correct foul call on Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga in their loss to the Rockets. This decision was crucial in the game’s final moments. (Bleacher Report)
Roster The Rockets have revamped their lineup with a mix of young talent and veteran presence. Key acquisitions and draft picks like Jalen Green are expected to bring a new energy to the team. Houston’s rebuild aims to set them on a path to future success. (The Ringer)
Must Read The best defense in the NBA is 4,500 screaming maniacs, or how the Clippers built the best home court advantage. (WSJ)
Analysis Even the Wizards are surprised they’re losing like this. (The Athletic)
Rumor NBA trade intel on Lakers, Pelicans, Warriors, Heat, Hawks and more from two ESPN insiders.
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Fantasy Cheat Sheet
What To Do With Portland’s Centers In Fantasy Basketball
Nov 22, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) handles the ball against Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr (10) during the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images | Erik Williams/Erik Williams-Imagn Images
Portland’s Center Conundrum
Portland is currently a hotbed of uncertainty, especially concerning their center position. With Deandre Ayton battling an illness and Robert Williams III and Donovan Clingan both questionable due to injuries, fantasy managers are left in a bind. The likelihood of all three playing is slim, making it a gamble to stream any of them. If you’re considering adding Williams or Clingan to your roster, be prepared for a potential last-minute change. This situation highlights the importance of staying updated with player statuses, especially when dealing with teams like Portland, which can be notoriously unpredictable.
Injury Updates and Player Performances
Injuries are an inevitable part of the NBA season, and they can significantly impact fantasy lineups. Stephon Castle’s unexpected absence due to a shoulder issue has opened up opportunities for other players. Devin Vassell might see increased minutes, and if he starts, it could be challenging to move him back to the bench. Meanwhile, Zach Collins’ absence in San Antonio means Charles Bassey could be a valuable stream option for those needing a big man.
The Utah Jazz are also dealing with injury woes, with Lauri Markkanen managing a lower back issue and Jordan Clarkson’s status remaining questionable. Markkanen’s potential absence could lead to increased roles for players like Johnny Juzang or Micah Potter, but the situation remains fluid. Fantasy managers should be cautious and consider steering clear of the Jazz’s lineup until there’s more clarity.
In Los Angeles, LeBron James is officially out with a foot injury, which could mean more opportunities for Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht. Nikola Vucevic’s illness adds another layer of complexity, and if he’s out, Jalen Smith becomes a viable streaming option.
PrizePicks: Run Your Game. | Photo provided by PrizePicks
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Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Rockets podcasts.
Alperen Senguns Leads The Way & Houston Rockets Defense CLAMPS Golden State Warriors In NBA Cup Win Breaking down the Rockets NBA Cup Quarterfinals win against the Warriors, ending a 15-game losing streak spanning nearly five years. How the Rockets DEFENSE put the clamps on the Warriors, Alperen Sengun’s All-Star night and more.
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?
