Sleep tight, because when you wake up, it's another big win! That's right, this is the Rockets we know and love. After easily defeating the Nuggets, the Rockets have now won five consecutive games. What was supposed to be a tough stretch of games turned out to be a breeze for them. Under Udoka's guidance, these young players have become a force to be reckoned with, showing real potential for greatness.
In the game against the Nuggets, the Rockets' star player Jalen Green continued his explosive form. He's been on fire recently, scoring an impressive 34 points in just three quarters. His shooting efficiency was impeccable: 10 out of 16 from the field, 6 out of 10 from beyond the arc, and a perfect 8 for 8 from the free-throw line. It's clear that he's playing at an incredibly high level.
Besides Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun has also been delivering consistently. Since becoming a starter, the Rockets have gone 9-1, which speaks volumes about his impact. Sengun's defense has been particularly noteworthy, and there's a real chance he could make the All-Defensive Team this year. In the recent game, he had 11 points, 9 rebounds, 4 steals, and 2 blocks. His performance has been nothing short of spectacular, especially considering his height of only 201 cm. The chemistry between Jalen Green and Sengun has been a joy to watch for Rockets fans, as they continue to push each other to new heights.
However, it's not just these two who have been shining. Another player who has recently found his groove is "White Magic" Whitmore. In the latest game, Whitmore came off the bench to score 16 points, grab 9 rebounds, and contribute with 1 assist, 1 steal, and 1 block. He shot efficiently, going 7 for 11 from the field and 2 for 4 from three-point range. This isn't a one-off performance; during the five-game winning streak, he has had three standout games. Against the Grizzlies, he went 6 for 9 from the field and 4 for 7 from three-point range to score 16 points. And in the blowout win against the Wizards, he was 6 for 8 from the field and a perfect 3 for 3 from downtown to tally 17 points.
Whitmore's recent performances have been a revelation. Known for his rebellious nature, he has now found his role within the team and is thriving. Coach Udoka praised Whitmore after the game, saying that he's no longer concerned about his cheetah-like speed but rather his ability to play at different tempos. Whitmore has learned when to use his speed and when to slow down, which is a testament to his growing maturity as a player. Similar to Kuminga of the Warriors, Whitmore possesses incredible athleticism but lacked basketball IQ. However, by observing Jalen Green's development and Sengun's style of play, Whitmore has become increasingly rational in his approach.
Looking at the "Rocket Seven," a group of seven young players, it's clear that none of them are underperforming. Each one shows the potential to become a star. We've discussed Jalen Green, Sengun, and Whitmore, but let's not forget about the others. Sengun, despite a temporary dip in form, remains a powerhouse and a non-negotiable asset for the Rockets, evidenced by his massive $185 million contract extension over five years. Jabari Smith Jr. has also shown his worth, and although injured, both he and the hardworking Ethan have proven their abilities. Lastly, there's the third pick from the 24th draft class, Sheppard, who hasn't yet made his mark in the regular season but exploded for 49 points in his first G League game. It's only a matter of time before he regains his confidence.
The future looks bright for the Houston Rockets, with these young talents leading the charge. As they continue to grow and develop, the sky's the limit for what they can achieve.