Rockets Head to Orlando for Matchup with Magic
Stretch Run. More Than a Chance. Starting Strong.
The Houston Rockets are back in action tonight for the first time in over a week. After an All-Star break which hopefully saw the players get plenty of rest and reinvigoration, the Rockets are ready for the NBA’s stretch run. Houston has 24 games remaining, but only 9 are on the road, including tonight’s matchup in Orlando.
The Rockets are currently in the midst of a seven-game losing streak, and they’ll look to end that against a Magic team with a worse record than Houston. Jalen Green was Houston’s most efficient player entering the break. Hopefully the rookie picks up where he left off. He’ll be facing fellow Slam-Dunk participant Cole Anthony, who’s having a breakout season for Orlando. Losers of four straight games, the Magic are a very beatable opponent for Houston. If the Rockets can play hard and get off to a strong start, they have a chance to produce some magic of their own in Orlando.
Both teams may show some rust due to the long break, but whoever plays harder and wins the hustle game will take tonight’s outcome. Franz Wagner, Mo Bamba, Wendell Carter Jr., and Jalen Suggs will be the key players Houston need to contain on defense, including Anthony. The Rockets are healthy and should have plenty of hungry players eager to end their losing skid. Hopefully the squad can start the final stretch run of the season with a victory.
Amway Center: Orlando, Florida
Jersey Colors:
Houston Rockets (15-43): White
Orlando Magic (13-47): Blue
Tip-Off: 6 PM CT
TV: AT&T Sportsnet SW, NBA League Pass