The Houston Rockets beat the Memphis Grizzlies 108-99 on Monday. Alperen Sengun went 15-of-17 from the field for 33 points. Amen Thompson had 14 assists. Houston is 28-16.
Sengun was 15-of-17 from the field
Sengun’s 33 points came on 88% shooting. He scored from everywhere, added rebounds, and created for teammates. When a big man is that efficient, the defense has to collapse, which opens up the perimeter. The inside-out game the Rockets are running through Sengun is difficult to guard when he’s shooting like that.
Houston trailed entering the fourth quarter
The Rockets were behind heading into the final period. They responded with a 21-9 run to close the game. The defense tightened, and the offense executed. Closing games was a problem for Houston in previous seasons. This team has shown the ability to win tight games, and Monday was another example.
Tari Eason isn’t being traded
Tari Eason has been mentioned in trade rumors. The Rockets have indicated he’s part of the long-term plan. Eason is averaging 12 points and 6.2 rebounds with strong defensive impact. Moving a two-way player on a rookie contract doesn’t make sense for a team building toward contention.
Amen Thompson had 14 assists
Amen Thompson ran the offense and finished with 14 assists. His vision and decision-making have improved throughout the season. Thompson finding Sengun repeatedly in advantageous positions is why the big man got so many clean looks. The playmaking from Thompson makes Houston’s offense more connected.
The Rockets are 28-16 and in playoff position in the Western Conference. The Sengun-Thompson combination is producing results. Monday’s win over Memphis showed both the offensive upside and the ability to close when trailing.
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