Rockets Outlast Pistons, 101-99, in Motor City Rock Fight
Survival of the Fittest. Say Cheese. Beastin’ Eason.
In a match that evolved into a physical slugfest, the Rockets escaped Detroit with a 101-99 victory over the Pistons on Sunday afternoon. This was the ugliest game of Houston’s season so far, as neither team had any business winning this contest. The Rockets once again struggled shooting the ball, but were able to fend-off a pesky Pistons team late to seal the victory. Houston held an 86-74 lead before Detroit stormed back to take the lead. The Rockets were able to survive, but Cunninhgam and company made the proceedings interesting during clutch time. Alperen Sengun led Houston with 27 points and 10 rebounds, as he was dominant in the paint against a Detroit squad sorely missing their starting center, Jalen Duren. Jalen Green scored only 15 points, as he continues to cool off after his fast start over the first quartet of games this season.
However, Green had the highlight of the season for the Rockets, and arguably the best dunk in entire the NBA so far this season. Green posterized Cade Cunningham in transition on a play that left both benches speechless. Cunningham had the better overall game, registering 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 9 assists, but Green’s team won and that highlight will be Top-10 SportsCenter-worthy for the rest of the year.
Tari Eason continues to be a difference maker on both ends for Houston, especially defensively. Eason made the steal that created the transition poster for Jalen Green. And Eason always seem to be in the right place at the right time. His chemistry with Amen Thompson creates one of the most lethal bench duos in the league. Eason finished scored 18 points and grabbed 9 rebounds, not to mention the intangibles the young swingman always brings on the court. It’s difficult to find a harder-playing guy in the NBA who brings Eason’s intensity.
Fred VanVleet once again struggled with his shot, scoring only 7 points on 3-for-13 shooting from the field. FVV still had 7 rebound and 7 assists, but couldn’t find the rim after a pair of solid scoring performances. Dillon Brooks had another strong game, scoring 14 points and providing the usual toughness that inspires this young team. Up next, the Rockets return home for three games in a row at the friendly confines of Toyota Center. First up, is a matchup with the Washington Wizards. With both teams coming off back-to-backs, another physical slugfest could be in store on Monday night.