The Houston Rockets suffered a resounding defeat against the Boston Celtics with a score of 86-109, a result that appears to be just another routine loss in the regular season. However, what lingers in the minds of fans after this match is not the crushing defeat itself, but the head coach Stephen Silas' post-game comments about Norman Powell. These remarks, akin to a stone thrown into a lake, have created ripples and sparked deep contemplation about the current state and future prospects of the Rockets.
In this game, the Rockets were thoroughly outplayed. The defeat was not only reflected in the significant point difference but also in the team's lackluster performance from the outset. In the first quarter, the Celtics demonstrated their formidable offensive and defensive prowess, firmly controlling the game's tempo. The Rockets' offense struggled, lacking effective organization and coordination, resorting to individual efforts out of necessity. Defensively, they were riddled with vulnerabilities, allowing the Celtics' players to score at will. Despite Jalen Green's impressive 27 points, his personal excellence could not offset the team's overall slump. It was as if a lone hero fought valiantly amidst a vast army yet could not turn the tide.
Of course, we cannot overlook the impact of objective factors. The absences of Smith, Aman, and Ison significantly diminished the Rockets' strength. However, this should not excuse the team's poor showing. Other players, especially the high-paid veterans, should step up, take responsibility, and lead the team forward in such times. Yet, what we witnessed was Norman Powell once again lost on the court. With a record of 3 out of 7 shots made, 8 points, and 3 assists, these statistics are clearly inadequate for a starting point guard earning an annual salary of $42.85 million. Offensively, he struggled to find his rhythm, and his playmaking appeared lackluster. Defensively, he became a weak point, repeatedly exploited by opponents for easy scores.
Norman Powell's subpar form is not a recent development; it has been a recurring issue. In recent games, his performances have been mediocre at best. This raises doubts about whether he truly fits into the Rockets' tactical system and whether he can fulfill the role of a starting point guard. The big contract signed during the offseason now seems more like a risky gamble. And in this gamble, the Rockets appear to have come up short.
What is even more disheartening is that head coach Stephen Silas still seems to have faith in Norman Powell. Post-game, instead of criticizing Powell's dismal performance, Silas expressed that Powell is helping the young players grow. Such an evaluation is perplexing. Can relying solely on experience on the court compensate for the gap in ability? Is watching a highly paid underperformer occupy a starting position the best way to assist young players?
We are all aware that the Rockets are in a critical period of rebuilding. Young players require more playing time and opportunities for training to grow rapidly. However, if veterans monopolize significant ball possession and playing time, how can young players find space to develop? Is Stephen Silas' approach to player utilization genuinely beneficial for the Rockets' long-term development?
This game also exposed other issues within the Rockets. Shen Jing's performance in the paint was unsatisfactory, scoring no points in the second half. Whitmore's shooting was cold, with only 4 successful shots out of 17 attempts. The team's overall offense lacked fluidity, with a meager 9 assists. These problems necessitate serious reflection by the coaching staff and prompt identification of solutions.
The path of rebuilding for the Rockets is destined to be fraught with challenges. Norman Powell's "problem" is merely a reflection of a larger issue. The direction the Rockets will take in the future, whether Stephen Silas' approach to player utilization will ultimately prove valid, and whether young players can shoulder the team's banner—all these questions await answers in time. However, we believe that as long as the Rockets remain united and steadfast in their convictions, they will surely overcome difficulties and return to glory.
Rebuilding is not achieved overnight; it requires the wisdom of management, adjustments by the coaching staff, and the efforts of the players. The Rockets need to find a development path suited to themselves and build a competitive team. In this process, there may be pain and doubt, but as long as the direction is correct and the methods appropriate, there will surely be a glimpse of hope on the horizon.
We look forward to the rapid growth of the Rockets' young players, who will become the pillars of the team's future. We also hope that Coach Silas will adjust tactics and optimize player utilization based on the team's actual situation, enabling each player to maximize their potential.
The future of the Rockets requires more patience and wisdom. Let us together anticipate the day when the Rockets emerge from their slump and return to the ranks of the strong teams. This defeat might just be the beginning of a new chapter.