Houston Rockets Surge to No. 2 in the West
The Houston Rockets have exploded onto the NBA scene this season, staking a claim to the No. 2 spot in the Western Conference. With a strong 23-12 record, the Rockets are turning heads and making waves, a stark contrast to their position two years ago when they were languishing near the bottom with only 22 wins.
Driving this remarkable turnaround is a dynamic and youthful roster. Jalen Green has emerged as a scoring machine, averaging 20 points per game. Meanwhile, Alperen Sengun provides solid support as the team’s second-leading scorer. Bolstered by an average age of just 23.6 years, the team's blend of youthful energy and raw talent makes them an exciting squad to watch.
The Energetic Rise of Amen Thompson
One player who has truly captured attention is Amen Thompson, the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Thompson's hustle and knack for being in the right place at the right time have made him a key contributor. His prowess on the offensive boards is particularly noteworthy. Averaging 2.6 offensive rebounds per game, he ranks 11th among forwards, which is impressive for any player, let alone a rookie.
Recently, his contributions have surged. Over the last five games, Thompson's offensive rebounds have jumped to 4.4 per game, including a standout performance against the Lakers where he snagged a season-high 16 rebounds, six of which were offensive. Tormenting opponents on multiple fronts, whether in transition, cutting, or on the glass, Thompson is proving his mettle. As JJ Redick noted, "Thompson just killed us all night, whether that was in transition, with his cutting or on the offensive glass."
Thompson has seamlessly transitioned into a starting role over the past six games, demonstrating his readiness and resilience on the court. LeBron James’ simple yet telling remark, "They ain't like the rest of us," speaks volumes about the impression Thompson is leaving on seasoned veterans.
An Unforeseen Setback
Despite their recent success, the Rockets have hit a bump in the road with the injury to Jabari Smith Jr., sidelined for at least a month due to a fractured left hand. This absence will undoubtedly be felt, but the team's depth provides hope that they can maintain momentum during his recovery.
Mastery in Transition
Another cornerstone of the Rockets' strategy this season has been their efficiency in transition. Ranked eighth in transition frequency, Houston constantly keeps opponents on their toes. Amen Thompson, in particular, excels in these fast-paced plays, sitting in the 76th percentile in transition scoring. His speed and agility draw admiration from peers and commentators alike, with Steven Adams expressing incredulity at Thompson's abilities: "One of a kind, bro. I haven't played with anybody like this. His speed is just like, unbelievable."
As the season progresses, the Rockets are poised to cement their status as a force in the Western Conference. With a combination of young talent, strategic prowess, and, most importantly, a team-first mentality, Houston basketball fans have every reason to be excited about what lies ahead.