Rockets Collapse in Disappointing OT Loss to Blazers, 137-131
Playing with Food. The Eason Effect. Not Good Enough.
In a painfully shocking display of disrespect, the Rockets surrendered a double-digit deficit, en route to a heartbreaking loss to the Trail Blazers, 137-131, in overtime. Jerami Grant hit a three point shot at time expired in regulation to send the game into an extra period, in which Houston was dominated 13-7 by Portland. Anfernee Simons did his best Michael Jordan impersonation, leading the Blazers with 33 points on 13-for-20 shooting. Alperen Sengun had another impressive performance for the Rockets, registering 30 points, 10 boards, and 8 assists on the night. Jalen Green had one of his better games, scoring 29 points on 12-for-24 shooting. However, down the stretch and in the clutch, it was Cam Whitmore on the court making the big shots, not Green. Jalen did most of his damage in the first three quarters, but still struggles to make an impact when the game’s on the line.
This is by far the worst game the Rockets have played this season. Like children playing with their food, they let Portland sneak back into the game, and then take control. By the time overtime rolled around, the Blazers had momentum, and the rest was history for the home team. The squad had two days off coming into this matchup, whereas the Blazers suffered a tough loss the previous night. Given Houston performs much better at home compared to the road, and they simply have a more talented team that Portland, this was by far the most disappointing loss of the season. Give the Blazers credit, Portland did play one of their best games of the season. But this contest should’ve never gone to overtime. The Rockets let the game slip away in the second half. After struggling in general to get off to faster starts, Houston struggled to close the game in this matchup. It’s evident this Rockets team need to improve on stringing four quarters of solid basketball together.
This loss now pits the Rockets with a 20-23 record on the season, with their chances of sneaking into the Play-In waning with each defeat. This game was evidence that right now, this Houston team just isn’t good enough. Granted, they still have Tari Eason out, and Jabari Smith Jr. didn’t play in this game either, but the Rockets still should’ve beaten the Blazers. The squad will try and shake off this demoralizing loss, as they head to the East coast for a back-to-back against inferior teams this weekend. If Houston wants any chance of winning one or both of these upcoming games… they better start showing their opponents some proper respect.