Rockets Bow to Kings, 132-127, as Win Streak Ends
Snapped Late. Questionable Whistle. Welcome Return.
Despite a valiant effort to rally late, the Rockets fell to the Kings, 132-127, on Thursday night in Sacramento. The loss snaps Houston’s five game winning streak, and keeps the Rockets winless, with an 0-2 record, against the Kings this season. DeMar DeRozan’s 33 points fueled a balanced offensive attack for Sacramento. Malik Monk added 26 points off the bench, and every starter scored at least 18 points for the Kings. Jalen Green stayed hot, as led the Rockets with 28 points on another efficient 10-for-20 shooting night from the floor. Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson both had double-doubles. Sengun finished with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 steals. Twin scored 20 points to go along with 10 boards.
There were a few questionable calls by official Josh Tivens late in the game. Very questionable whistles directed at Dillon Brooks. Sadly, it appears Brooks’ reputation unfairly got him those fouls, as replay and even the national announcers were surprised at Tivens’ behavior as an NBA referee. Regardless, the Rockets still had a chance late to tie the game on a Jalen Green three. However, Green missed a good look, as the Kings secured the victory, ending Houston’s winning streak at five games.
Houston sorely missed Fred VanVleet in this game. FVV was ruled out due to personal reasons, and the Rockets really could’ve used their point guard and floor leader during crunch time on Thursday night. In a welcome sign, Tart Eason finally returned to action for the first time in roughly a dozen games. In 24 minutes of playing time, Eason scored 16 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. With each receiving 14 minutes of playing time, Steven Adams and Aaron Holiday were both once again solid contributors in limited action.
Up next, Houston will travel to Portland to face the Trail Blazers on Saturday night in the finale of this three game road trip. The Rockets are 1-1 against the Blazers this season, with both games coming in Houston on back-to-back nights. Despite a solid NBA Cup Group Stage win in the first matchup, the Rockets lost the second one on the following night to Portland. Houston will be aiming for revenge, and a win in the season series, as their matchup with the Blazers on Saturday night is their lone visit to Portland all season. It’s not a back-to-back, and the Rockets will be eager to put this loss to the Kings in the past, so Houston should be ready to close out this road trip with a win this weekend.