Rockets Outlast Cavs, 115-104, to Snap Home Skid
Victory at Last. Rookie Resurgence. Dealing with the Deadline.
For the first time in 2022, the Houston Rockets finally won a home game. Houston held off Cleveland, 115-104, to close their four-game home-stand. The win puts the Rockets’ franchise record 11-game losing streak to bed. The Cavaliers were without their All-Star Darius Garland, but that didn’t mean this contest was a cakewalk for Houston. The third overall pick in last year’s draft, Evan Mobley, showed why he’s probably going to be named Rookie of the Year at season’s end. Mobley had a dominant 29 points and 12 rebounds for the Cavs, who also got a vintage performance from Kevin Love, chipping in with 21 points. Jalen Green and Christian Wood led the Rockets with 21 points apiece, while Kevin Porter Jr. supplied 16 points and 7 assists for Houston. The Rockets led by only one point after the first quarter, but outscored Cleveland by 10 points in the second period to take control of the game.
After hitting the “Rookie Wall” a few games back, Jalen Green is starting to play more efficiently once again for the Rockets. Green shot 6-for-13 from the floor, including 3-for-7 from distance. If Green keeps playing at an efficient level, the numbers will follow. And Alperen Sengun, who also had a small run-in with the “Rookie Wall” put together a strong game in 24 minutes. Sengun registered 9 points on only 4 shots, grabbed 8 boards, and dished 3 assists in only 24 minutes. Houston’s other rookie, Josh Christopher, who didn’t see as many minutes as in recent games, continues to thrive and grow with each game. Christopher scored 5 points and grabbed 3 boards in only 12 minutes, but it’s what he does off the ball and on defense that has improved immensely since the start of the season.
With the trade deadline approaching, now less than a week away, the Rockets are rumored to be players on February 10th. Christian Wood and Eric Gordon are the biggest names that have been discussed in rumors. Wood had a solid night against the Cavs, registering 21 points, 7 boards, 4 assists, and 2 steals. Gordon scored 11 points on an off-shooting night, but interested teams know the veteran’s value. Hopefully Houston makes the best choice with both players. As a fan of the team, it will be hard to see either player leave. Wood has so much promise and potential to be an All-Star, but it seems like the franchise is ready to unleash Alperen Sengun. Although I’m not totally sold on the idea the two can’t play well and mesh together on the court. They haven’t had enough opportunities. EG is the longest current-tenured player on the Rockets, and his veteran presence has been a steady guide for this young team during this rocky season. Gordon’s in the midst of his most efficient shooting season of his career, and can help a contender reach the ultimate goal. It would be nice to see EG and Wood remain in Houston, but at first glance… that seems like a long-shot.