Rockets Storm Past Grizzlies, 120-118, to Win Fourth Straight
Comeback Kids. Green Eruption. Opening Prayer.
In a season full of exciting games, chock Houston’s third round against the Memphis Grizzlies to the list. After trailing for the majority of the contest, the Rockets faced a thirteen point deficit with around eight minutes left in the game. And as fans in H-Town have witnessed several times this season, the resilient Rockets showed up, as the squad rallied for an impressive 120-118 win over Memphis on Monday night at Toyota Center. Houston used a 23-7 run in the fourth quarter to rally for the victory.
As he continues to flourish and evolve into a star before our eyes, Jalen Green had arguably the best game of his career. Green scored 42 points on a ridiculously efficient 13-for-18 shooting performance, including the go-ahead layup in the final minute. Everyone keeps waiting for Green to finally reach a consistent All-Star playing level. And it appears Green may finally be knocking on the door of his potential. The Rockets are now 7-0 this season when Green scores at least 30 points, proving Houston is at their best when Green’s at his best.
In another starting nod, Amen Thompson once again excelled in his role. Twin registered 19 points, 13 rebounds, 5 blocks, 4 assists, and 2 steals. His versatility on both ends of the court is an unmatched asset, one of the Rockets are fully utilizing. Houston is 8-1 this season with Thompson in the starting lineup. It will be difficult for Head Coach Ime Udoka to keep Twin out of the starting lineup if the squad ever regains full health. Tari Eason missed his eleventh straight game in the win. Jabari Smith Jr. will be back in a little under two months at the latest, but Eason’s injury is more concerning. After suffering a season-ending injury early last year, Houston is being extremely cautious with Eason to avoid that fate this season. But with each passing game, it appears this injury could be more seriously than the team’s coaches and trainers are making it appear.
Last year, the Rockets wouldn’t have won a game like Monday night’s thriller. They even committed the most turnovers they have all season, yet still squeaked by the Grizz for the win. And Houston will need Eason back if they want to truly contend come playoff time. Up next, the schedule toughens up as the Rockets hit the road for a tough back-to-back out West. Expect another exciting game for Houston, as the NBA’s hottest teams square off when the Rockets visits the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday night.