Following a recent surge in performance, the Houston Rockets have found themselves in the midst of a remarkable turnaround in the latter part of the NBA season. Despite facing challenges earlier in the year, including a significant injury to star center Alperen Sengun, the Rockets have managed to string together an impressive series of victories.
With five consecutive wins and seven triumphs in their last eight games, the Rockets have improved their record to 32-35, positioning themselves at 11th place in the Western Conference. This surge has reignited their playoff hopes and put them within striking distance of the Los Angeles Lakers.
The team's recent success can be attributed to strategic lineup adjustments, notably shifting power forward Jabari Smith Jr. to center and integrating rookie point guard Amen Thompson into the starting lineup. These changes have bolstered the Rockets' defensive capabilities, enabling a switch-everything approach that has proven effective on the court.
Offensively, third-year guard Jalen Green has stepped up his game, delivering standout performances and averaging 24.6 points per game since March 2. Green's improved play has been instrumental in the Rockets' recent victories, showcasing his potential as a key player for the team's future.
Looking ahead, the Rockets face a favorable schedule with upcoming matchups against the Washington Wizards, Chicago Bulls, and Utah Jazz. These games present an opportunity for Houston to continue their winning streak and further solidify their playoff aspirations.
Despite initial concerns about resting key veterans to secure a higher draft pick, the Rockets' recent success has shifted the focus towards a potential playoff berth. With their draft pick currently holding a 9.4% chance of landing in the top four, the team is now prioritizing their competitive momentum for the remainder of the season.
In what marks a successful first year of Phase 2 in Houston's rebuild and head coach Ime Udoka's tenure, the Rockets have demonstrated resilience and growth throughout the season. Starting strong at 15-12 and overcoming adversity, the team's pursuit of reaching the 40-win mark showcases their determination and progress in the competitive landscape of the NBA.
