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.
Jalen Green ON FIRE & Amen Thompson CLAMPS Ja Morant In Houston Rockets Comeback Win Vs Grizzlies
Rockets Resilience Shines in Thrilling Victory Over Grizzlies
The Houston Rockets showcased their tenacity with a stunning comeback against the Memphis Grizzlies, overcoming a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter to clinch a 120-118 victory.
Jalen Green’s Offensive Masterclass
Leading the charge was Jalen Green, who matched his career-high with 42 points. Green’s performance was a masterclass in scoring efficiency, hitting 13 of 18 shots from the field and an impressive 5 of 6 from three-point range. His perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line underscored his growth as a player who can draw fouls and capitalize on those opportunities.
Green’s ability to score at all levels kept the Rockets competitive throughout the game. His offensive gravity was evident, as it opened up opportunities for his teammates, allowing them to find easier opportunities. This game was a testament to Green’s evolution into a star-level offensive force, capable of carrying the team on his back when needed.
Amen Thompson’s Defensive Brilliance
While Green dazzled on offense, Amen Thompson anchored the Rockets defense with a standout performance. Tasked with guarding Ja Morant, Thompson’s defensive prowess was on full display. He recorded five blocks and two steals, effectively disrupting Morant’s rhythm and forcing him into difficult shots. Thompson’s defensive impact was crucial in limiting the Grizzlies scoring opportunities, especially during the Rockets pivotal 33-18 run to close out the game.
Thompson’s contributions extended beyond defense. His ability to ignite fast breaks and transition opportunities was vital, as seen in his kick-ahead pass to Green for a crucial three-pointer. Thompson’s presence in the starting lineup has transformed the Rockets dynamics, allowing them to play at a faster pace and create more scoring chances.
The Rockets victory over the Grizzlies not only highlighted individual brilliance but also underscored the team’s resilience and ability to execute under pressure. Despite turnovers and challenging stretches, the Rockets determination never wavered, showcasing their potential as a formidable force in the Western Conference.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Rockets thrilling win, tune into the Locked On Rockets podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Rockets Podcast:
- Alperen Sengun’s mixed performance and foul trouble
- Steven Adams’ crucial minutes off the bench
- The impact of Amen Thompson in the starting lineup on team dynamics
Jan 13, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) dribbles up court against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at Scotiabank Arena. | John E. Sokolowski/John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Something I realized last night at the Warriors-Raptors game, perhaps more pressingly than the last time the team was in town a season ago — this thing isn’t going to last forever.
You wouldn’t get that impression from Steph Curry, who takes his pre-game warmup last and happily engages with the fans who show up an hour before tip-off to watch him. Curry’s off-court presence, compared to his superstar contemporaries, has always been demure and private, but watching him revel and work within that outsized adoration is a privilege in itself. No fan in attendance watching him take feathery lob after feathery lob, or take a volleyball spike to the basketball so he could meet it mid-air for a dunk, was thinking about the finite nature of Curry — performer or competitor.
Even if the underlying desire of proximity to greatness stems from the understanding that one day that greatness will no longer exist, that reality doesn’t translate in the moment. In the moment, there’s just Curry, laughing with his coaches, signing the backs of jerseys, going through footwork, prepping for the night’s game.
Where the impression of a dynasty in its final stages becomes more pronounced is through the words of Warriors coach, Steve Kerr. Asked about how difficult it is to maintain a dynasty, and Kerr reverted to Curry.
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
Milestone Jalen Green scores a career-high as the Houston Rockets secure a gutsy win against the Grizzlies. This achievement marks a significant moment in Green’s career. (The Dream Shake)
Preview The Houston Rockets aim to extend their winning streak as they face the Atlanta Hawks. Key matchups include Jalen Green against Trae Young. (The Dream Shake)
Analysis Big shots defined Houston’s significant win over Memphis, showcasing the team’s clutch performance in critical moments. Check out the detailed analysis from Sports Illustrated.
Rumor An NBA mock trade suggests the Houston Rockets could acquire superstar Zion Williamson from the New Orleans Pelicans, potentially transforming the team’s future. (Sports Illustrated)
Must Read The full 2025 NBA mock draft offers two-round predictions and player comparisons, providing essential insights for Houston Rockets fans. Explore these projections on Bleacher Report.
Trade If the 2025 NBA trade deadline were today, what strategic moves would the Houston Rockets consider? Dive into the potential scenarios on Bleacher Report.
Analysis TheDetroit Pistons are emerging as a serious surprise story this season. (TSN)
Biz Explosive court documents show co-conspirators and other shocking details in Jontay Porter’s ongoing betting scandal. (The Athletic)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
NBA Injury Update: Key Players Sidelined and Return Timelines For Fantasy Basketball
Jan 12, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz guard Isaiah Collier (13) attempts a three point basket against the Brooklyn Nets during the third quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images | Rob Gray/Rob Gray-Imagn Images
As we approach the midpoint of the NBA season, injuries continue to play a significant role in shaping team dynamics and fantasy basketball strategies. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most impactful injuries across the league and their potential implications.
The Utah Jazz are once again at the forefront of injury-related drama. Lauri Markkanen’s back spasms and John Collins’ hip issue have raised eyebrows, with many speculating about potential load management strategies. Keyonte George’s heel soreness has kept him out for five consecutive games, while Jordan Clarkson’s plantar fascia injury could potentially end his season. The Jazz’s injury situation is one to monitor closely, as it could lead to increased opportunities for players like Kyle Filipowski and Isaiah Collier
In Philadelphia, Joel Embiid’s knee injury has kept him out for four consecutive games. This absence highlights the risks associated with drafting Embiid in the first round of fantasy drafts. With a busy schedule ahead, including back-to-back sets, Embiid’s playing time could be limited even upon his return.
For more insights and a deeper dive into NBA injuries and their fantasy implications, tune into the Locked On Fantasy Basketball podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast:
• Portland Trail Blazers injury updates
• Phoenix Suns roster changes and injury concerns
• Orlando Magic’s lengthy injury report and fantasy implications
3peat (ICYMI)
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Rockets podcasts.
How Houston Rockets COLLAPSED In Final Seconds Vs Nets Despite 20/20 Game In Alperen Sengun’s Return Can the Houston Rockets bounce back after their heart-wrenching loss to the Brooklyn Nets? With Fred VanVleet’s absence glaringly felt, the Rockets struggles in the clutch moments raise questions about their late-game execution and strategy.
Luka Doncic TRADED To Lakers For Anthony Davis!? How It HELPS The Houston Rockets, NBA Impact & More Luka Doncic’s shocking trade to the Los Angeles Lakers has sent shockwaves through the NBA. How will this blockbuster move reshape the league and impact the Houston Rockets’ future?
Late Game Execution Costs Houston Rockets In Loss To Grizzlies + Alperen Sengun Becomes An All-Star Can the Houston Rockets bounce back after a nail-biting loss to the Memphis Grizzlies? With Alperen Sengun’s All-Star selection, the Rockets are making headlines in the NBA.
