In the Houston Rockets’ season opener, they faced off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in an intense double-overtime battle, ultimately falling just short with a score of 125 to 124. The game saw star players like Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Kevin Durant exit early due to fouls, adding to the unpredictability of the outcome. Rockets’ coach Udoka previously mentioned that the starting lineup would adjust according to the strengths of their opponents, a strategy that was fully demonstrated in this match.
This season, the Rockets’ lineup revolves around impressive young wing players with an average height of about 6 feet 10 inches (208 cm), showcasing a defensive-heavy strategy that makes a lot of sense. In the opening starting lineup, Amen Thompson steps up as the point guard, while Kevin Durant makes his debut as a shooting guard. Meanwhile, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun, and Steven Adams create a strong frontcourt. The Rockets excelled on the boards, boasting a clear 51-39 advantage. However, their defense still appeared a bit shaky when facing the Thunder’s quick counters.
In the second quarter, the Rockets adopted a 2-3 zone defense strategy, effectively shutting down the Thunder’s offense. With SGA posing a driving threat and Jalen Williams absent, the Thunder primarily relied on Chet’s mid-range shooting. However, they struggled with a three-point shooting percentage of only 25% (13 out of 52). The Rockets’ defensive strategy successfully suppressed their opponent’s offensive efforts, keeping the game tightly contested.
With VanVleet’s unfortunate injury, the Rockets’ ball-handling ability in the backcourt faced significant challenges. Though Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard put in the effort, their lack of experience made it tough for the Rockets to effectively handle the Thunder’s defensive pressure on offense. The Rockets gradually began to increase the number of screens set by their forwards, seeking breakthroughs in their attack. In response, the Thunder adjusted their defense, opting for a strategy that focused on not switching. This made the Rockets’ perimeter shooting a decisive factor in the game’s outcome.
The Rockets’ bench is underperforming with a shooting percentage of just 29%, highlighting the pressure of their opponent’s mature defense. In this context, Dorian Finney-Smith’s return becomes increasingly crucial. Although Capela and Adams face limitations due to their age, their defensive presence and rebounding support are essential for Sengun’s scoring performance.
Alperen Sengun delivered an astonishing performance in the game, scoring 39 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, and dishing out 7 assists, while shooting an impressive 62.5% from beyond the arc. His outstanding display not only outshone reigning champion SGA on the court but also positioned him as a key driver in the Rockets’ development this season. As the Rockets continue to gel, the management’s offseason strategy has shown remarkable foresight.
