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 Drops 25 While Jae’Sean Tate & STAY READY CREW Lift Houston Rockets In Ugly Win Vs Hawks
Rockets Depth Shines in Gritty Win Over Hawks
The Houston Rockets managed to pull off a hard-fought victory against the Atlanta Hawks, showcasing the depth and resilience of their roster. Despite the challenges of playing on the second night of a back-to-back, the Rockets “Stay Ready” crew stepped up when it mattered most.
Stay Ready Crew Steps Up
In a game where both teams appeared sluggish, the Rockets bench players made a significant impact. With key players like Steven Adams and Tari Eason out, Jae’Sean Tate and others filled the void admirably. Tate was flawless, scoring 16 points on 6-of-6 shooting and tying for the team-high plus-minus of +15. His energy and hustle were crucial, providing the Rockets with much-needed momentum.
Jock Landale also contributed effectively, bringing energy at the center position with 4 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. Aaron Holiday added 8 points and 4 assists, offering stability during crucial stretches. Cam Whitmore, returning from illness, was active defensively, breaking up plays and contesting shots, even if his scoring was limited.
The collective effort of these players underscores the importance of having a deep bench. Their ability to step up in challenging situations is invaluable, especially during grueling stretches of the season. The Rockets depth not only helped secure this win but also highlighted the potential for long-term success.
The real incentive to win in this year’s All-Star Game? Pride
Feb 18, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Western Conference guard Stephen Curry (30) of the Golden State Warriors talks with forward Kevin Durant (35) of the Phoenix Suns and forward LeBron James (23) of the Los Angeles Lakers before the 73rd NBA All Star game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. | Kyle Terada/Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
I don’t spend that much time thinking about the NBA All-Star Game, or what’s reportedly ailing it. It’s like getting into a serious argument about the artistic merits of Marvel movies with another adult. They might entertain you and me, because they appeal to our sense of nostalgia (and the buying power within), but they’re made for kids.
With that out of the way, I do have a mild, hopeful prediction for this year’s game.
The last best All-Star Game I watched was in Chicago in 2020, and it was made that way because Kyle Lowry took three charges. Three charges! Many people were annoyed by it, namely LeBron James and James Harden who were at the other end of Lowry’s talents (the third was Kawhi Leonard, who was unbothered), but it was an injection of competitive spirit into a game that can get flat, fast.
It was also an anomaly. Not for Lowry (asking Lowry not to take charges would be like telling Steph Curry not to take threes), but for the game itself. A funny little hiccup that every player on the floor reacted to, whether they liked it or not. In their annoyance, James and Harden dug in, in their ability to cause annoyance and get under their rivals skin, Lowry’s ‘Team Giannis’ did the same. The crowd was engaged, excited, and that rare tendril of collective awareness in witnessing something unique happening ran through it.
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
Roster Amen Thompson has secured his spot in the Houston Rockets’ starting lineup under coach Ime Udoka, reflecting a strategic choice for the team’s future. (The Dream Shake)
Analysis The Rockets’ decision to maintain their core players and avoid trades demonstrates a commitment to long-term development and team cohesion. (Sports Illustrated)
Prediction As the trade deadline nears, the Houston Rockets are betting on themselves by focusing on internal growth rather than external acquisitions. (Sports Illustrated)
Rumor Despite speculations, the Rockets are unlikely to pursue a trade for De’Aaron Fox, staying clear of the trade rumors. (Bleacher Report)
Ranking In a recent evaluation, the Houston Rockets’ top three players most likely to be traded are ranked, providing insights into potential roster changes. (Bleacher Report)
Playoffs 10 NBA playoff contenders: How to fix the most unbalanced teams. (ESPN)
Trades The Toronto Raptors are “holding a lot of cards” ahead of the NBA trade deadline. (SportsNet)
Feel Good Former NBA star Isaiah Thomas scores 40-points in return to G League. (NBA.com)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Sell High Opportunities in Fantasy Basketball: Zion Williamson and More
Jan 27, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) has a rebound bounce of his head against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images | John E. Sokolowski/John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Fantasy basketball is all about maximizing value, and one of the best ways to do that is by identifying sell-high opportunities. Today, I’m diving into some players who are currently performing above expectations, presenting a prime chance to trade them for potentially higher long-term value.
Zion Williamson is the first player on our radar. The New Orleans Pelicans star has been on fire lately, ranking as the 15th best player in category leagues over the past two weeks. He’s averaging an impressive 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists, with 2 blocks per game. However, there are reasons to be cautious about his sustained production.
Williamson’s current 62% field goal percentage and 41% usage rate are likely unsustainable. While his defensive numbers have improved, there’s always the lingering injury risk to consider. If you can get a top-40 player in return for Zion, it might be worth pulling the trigger.
Deni Avdija: A Surprising Surge
Another player experiencing a hot streak is Deni Avdija of the Portland Trail Blazers. Over the last two weeks, he’s been the 54th ranked player in category leagues, averaging close to 40 fantasy points per game. His recent stat line of 19 points, eight rebounds, and five assists with two steals is impressive, but there are signs that this level of production may not last.
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.
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