Rockets Subdue Grizzlies, 117-104, Win 4th Straight
Gloves. Secondary Finishers. Quarter Mark.
In a game where Jalen Green nor Alperen Sengun played in the fourth quarter, one would think the Rockets had this game easily in hand. And they did, with a seemingly comfortable 14-point edge at halftime. However, a third-quarter outburst by Jaren Jackson Jr. and the Grizzlies made this a one-point game entering the final period. Thankfully, Ime Udoka pulled the right punches, utilized the Rockets’ deep roster, as Houston downed Memphis, 117-104, on Wednesday night. The win gives the Rockets their 11th straight home victory, and fourth overall. Jabari Smith Jr. scored 20 poijnts and grabbed 10 reboudns as he continues his strong play, nbut tonight once again belonged to Tari Eason. Coming off the best game of his season, Eason, or known to some as “Gloves”, a fitting nickname given to him by Alperen Sengun, had the best game of his career. Eason scored a career-high 25 points, grabbed a career-high 14 rebounds, and was a force on both ends of the floor. Gloves made his impact felt throughout the game, especially in the final period. Eason scored 9 of his 25 points in the final quarter, as he was one of several secondary finishers who helped guide Houston to victory.
Ime Udoka wasn’t happy with the efforts of Jalen Green or Alperen Sengun through the first three quarters. Hence, they didn’t see any action in the final period, as Eason, and Jeff Green, who scored all 9 of his points in the final frame, helped lead the Rockets to a win. Uncle Jeff didn’t even play in this game until roughly midway through that dreadful third period. After holding a comfortable 14-point edge at the half, Houston got outscored by Memphis 38-25 in the third quarter, cutting the Rockets lead to only one point. Jaren Jackson Jr. nearly brought the Grizz back by himself, as he scored 44 points, his second straight 40-point game. Houston started the fourth quarter on a 6-0 run, giving them a cushion the Grizzlies never would overcome. Jae’Sean Tate was also tremendous off the bench for the Rockets. Tate scored 10 points and provided the defense Coach Udoka is looking for in 23 minutes of action.
We are now officially more than a quarter of the way through the season. Houston has weathered arguably the league’s toughest first-quarter schedule, and with a record of 12-9, are exceeding expectations league-wide. After entering the season with no one expecting Houston to make the playoffs, the squad currently holds the 8th spot in the West, which as of now would put them in the Play-In situation. There’s still a long journey to go, as Houston has 61 more games remaining on the schedule. As of now they’re on the right path, and barring any major setbacks, this team should be in the playoff mix when April rolls around. The Rockets are now 11-1 at home, and will look to improve on their 1-8 road record as they battle these same Grizzlies in Memphis on Friday night. It won’t be as easy, but if Houston’s starters play with more intesnity, expect the Rockets to snag their second road win of the season.