After suffering a defeat in Sacramento, the Rockets had little time to adjust before embarking on another away game, this time facing the Portland Trail Blazers. Due to a calf injury, Amen Thompson was unable to play, and Tate took his place in the starting lineup for the first time this season. However, he failed to score a single point throughout the game, which did not satisfy the Rockets' fans. Fortunately, Tari Eason, who came off the bench, made a timely return from injury, scoring 18 points, grabbing 8 rebounds, dishing out 4 assists, and making 3 steals in the game. This performance helped the Rockets overcome the absence of Amen Thompson and win by a margin of 22 points. With more than half of the NBA regular season completed, the Rockets have achieved an impressive record of 28 wins and 13 losses, firmly ranking second in the Western Conference. In a post-game interview, VanVleet expressed that they still have bigger dreams and goals, and are continuously growing and improving. He hopes to peak in April and May. Recently, according to American media outlet Bleacher Report's journalist Jake Fischer, the underperforming Mavericks are keen on acquiring De'Andre Hunter from the Hawks as their top target. Hunter can relieve pressure on the Eastern European duo at both ends of the court. If negotiations go smoothly, defensive guard Quentin Grimes could join Houston. The specific trade plan is as follows: The Rockets send Aaron Holiday, a 2027 second-round pick from the Timberwolves, and a 2029 second-round pick from the Rockets to receive…

At the outset of the season, key factors such as talent, depth, and coaching were already in place. However, it is important to note that despite these conditions being met, they do not guarantee ideal results with certainty. Take the Rockets as an example; they have shown remarkable progress this season, which is not by chance but the result of various factors working together. Ime Udoka's excellent guidance has injected strong momentum and a clear tactical direction into the team. Compared to the same period last season, the Rockets have won 7 more games, clearly demonstrating significant improvements in tactical execution and player performance. Currently, the Rockets hold an outstanding record of 26 wins and 12 losses, firmly ranking second in the West. This achievement is attributed to the passion and drive of the young talents on the team, who shine on the court with their exceptional physical abilities and limitless potential. Experienced veterans also play a pivotal role, using their accumulated experience and calm mindset to stabilize the team and make wise decisions at critical moments. Additionally, the team's tough players exert immense pressure on opponents defensively and are relentless offensively, contributing significantly to victories. Notably, in January, the team's rising star, Green, entered an exceptional competitive state, scoring over 20 points in six consecutive games, leading the Rockets to a remarkable record of 5 wins and 1 loss. Green's performance in January reached All-Star level standards, averaging 30.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. Moreover, his shooting accuracy was as high as…

In the NBA arena, the Houston Rockets have recently caught the eye with their performance. Despite the absence of key players Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr., the team has continued to win games in a row. What secrets lie behind this remarkable record? After in-depth analysis, two key factors have emerged. VanVleet Changes His Playing Style to Energize the Team's Offense VanVleet was once controversial for his shot selection in games, leaving an impression of being "selfish." However, during the period when Eason and Smith were absent, he made a timely adjustment to his strategy, transitioning from a "scoring priority" to an "organizational core." Aware that the team's margin for error had decreased after losing two key defenders, VanVleet stopped taking unnecessary shots. He focused more on organizing and connecting the team, using his excellent passing vision and overall perspective to create excellent scoring opportunities for his teammates time and again. In the game, we often see him skillfully break through the defense, attract defenders, and accurately pass the ball to open teammates. This change has been significant, with his assist numbers skyrocketing. Although his personal scoring statistics have declined, the team's overall offense has become smooth and efficient, laying a solid foundation for victory. Amon Starts to Activate the Lineup, Bench Firepower Continuously Outputs Promoting Amon Thompson to the starting lineup is undoubtedly a stroke of genius by the Rockets coaching staff. This talented rookie is at ease in the starting position, showcasing extraordinary strength on both the offensive and defensive ends. Offensively, Amon can use his outstanding…

In a fierce match where the Rockets secured their third victory against the Grizzlies this season, all eyes were on Jalen Green, who scored 42 points, and Amen Thompson, who contributed 19 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 5 blocks. These two young players, both in their early twenties, have accelerated the countdown for veteran Fred VanVleet's departure with their outstanding performances. Initially, the Rockets signed VanVleet to a three-year, 112millioncontractfromthefree−agentmarkettomentortheiryoungplayers.This112 million contract from the free-agent market to mentor their young players. This 112millioncontractfromthefree−agentmarkettomentortheiryoungplayers.This40 million average annual salary was more akin to a "training fee." However, no one anticipated how quickly the Rockets' rebuilding process would progress. At the beginning, VanVleet and the Rockets management might have considered renewing his contract after its expiration with a slightly lower average salary but longer term, allowing VanVleet to continue guiding the team. This was because shortly after signing, the Rockets' promising point guard, Kevin Porter Jr., was removed from the team due to self-sabotage. In such circumstances, even if the team wanted to find a future successor, there was no suitable candidate. At that time, Green, who had been honed for two years, had proven to everyone that he was a pure shooting guard, not a combo guard. Subsequently, the Rockets' management demonstrated their response by choosing high draft picks in the 23rd and 24th consecutive drafts to secure backcourt point guard players. No one expected that Amen Thompson, drafted in 2023, would grow into the best all-around player for the Rockets in just one season. Standing at 2.01 meters…

The "Superstar" of the Rockets Rises! From Doubts to the True Scene, Three Consecutive Wins Unveil the Future Blueprint Jalen Green, a future superstar or just a fleeting moment? Two years ago, the Rockets selected this determined and energetic young man with the second overall pick in the draft. However, at that time, many experts shook their heads and sighed, "Another player with excellent physical abilities but lacking basketball IQ." The doubts were like an impending storm, and fans' criticisms didn't stop either: "Isn't it just about jumping? What about stability?" Even during this year's offseason, when the Rockets renewed Green's contract for $106 million over three years in advance, the deal was ridiculed as "gambling on youth." But the facts have proven that the Rockets made the right bet, and they won big. Recently, the Rockets' three-game winning streak has become a hot topic across the league, and there is no doubt that Green is the main character behind it. In the three games, he scored 27 points, 29 points, and 33 points respectively, using his signature breakaway layups and precise outside shooting to prove his growth to the outside world. From being a showman to becoming the core of the team, his transformation did not come by chance. Stability is what impresses people most about Green. Last season, his performance in each game was like "opening a blind box": he could score 20+ when in good form, but also make consecutive mistakes and recklessly charge into multiple defenders when in poor form. However, now, his shot selection is…

NBA's arena is ever-changing, and the Rockets have taken a clear lead over the Wizards at halftime, a result that has sent ripples across the calm waters like a stone. Even more remarkable is the stunning performance of three young players within the Rockets, who shine like brilliant new stars, illuminating the path to the team's future. Sheppard, Amen Thompson, and G. Adams, these three young talents' outstanding displays have filled people with endless imagination about the Rockets' future. Sheppard: Honed in the Development League, Returning More Brilliant Sheppard, this young rookie player, has been tempered in the Development League and returned as if reborn. With his efficient scoring ability, he easily racks up high points, along with precise three-point shooting. On the defensive end, he also spares no effort, often delivering blocks to showcase his excellent defensive potential. Sheppard's comprehensive performance has given people hope for his future success on the NBA court. His growth and progress will undoubtedly inject new vitality into the Rockets. Amen Thompson: Transformed After Suspension, Becoming a Core Player on Both Offense and Defense Amen Thompson, once a controversial young player due to suspension, now appears before people with a whole new look. He demonstrates an extremely strong scoring ability on the offensive end, whether it's breaking through for layups or dunking inside, all eye-catching. On the defensive end, he also performs outstandingly, becoming the backbone of the team. Amen Thompson's transformation has shown his potential to become the core of the Rockets' future. His versatility and outstanding talent will undoubtedly provide powerful momentum…

This season, the Rockets are rich in talent and have many available players, naturally leading to a rise in their record, which currently stands at 24 wins and 12 losses, ranking second in the West, closely following the Thunder. With so many young talents on the Rockets, it's natural that some players don't get enough playing time, or because they have some obvious shortcomings, they can't compete with their opponents and can only watch as they lose their chances and playing time. The top four scorers for the Rockets right now are Jalen Green, Sengun, VanVleet, and Dillon, followed by sophomore swingman Amen Thompson at number five. In yesterday's victory over the Wizards, Amen Thompson scored 20 points, grabbed 15 rebounds, and dished out 5 assists, showing great strength. He has now scored over 20 points in two consecutive games and has grabbed 15 or more rebounds in a single game four times in his career, second only to Wembanyama among rookies in 2023. As a result, not only did Whitmore lose his chance, but Sheppard also had no hope. Sheppard was the third overall pick by the Rockets this season and performed well in the NBA Summer League, having some opportunities in the preseason games, and was seen as a strong contender for Rookie of the Year. However, in the regular season, Sheppard's performance was poor, having played only 30 regular-season games so far, averaging a low 3.3 points per game. Out of necessity, to allow Sheppard to play consistently and maintain his form, the Rockets finally decided to…

Recently, the Rockets' performance can be described with one word—lukewarm. The young players on the team are doing well, with some occasionally exploding, but the team's overall offensive efficiency, especially at the point guard position, is really dragging them down. Take Amen Thompson, for example. Although he has potential in scoring ability, he hasn't yet achieved stable scoring, averaging only 12 points, which is indeed quite low. The Rockets urgently need a stronger point guard, and this problem is already there. Controlling the rhythm and driving the offense, a good point guard can make the team's offense more fluid and layered. The question is, who can step up for the Rockets to find such a player? Fox's name is being mentioned more and more often. The Kings' All-Star point guard is young, athletic, and most importantly, he has the ability to organize the offense. Moreover, he himself also intends to leave the Kings and wants to find a place that can give him more opportunities. Do you think the Rockets are just right? The Kings are considering rebuilding, and letting Fox go is also a possible choice for them. The Rockets have several promising young players and some expiring contracts, which can provide some trade chips, plus draft picks from the Suns, making the trade chips relatively rich. This gives the Rockets considerable negotiating capital in such a trade. Are you starting to doubt whether the Rockets will really get Fox through a trade? Some netizens believe that this trade is not worth the risk. Although Fox scores well, can…

On December 30th, Beijing time, the Rockets lost 100-104 to the Heat at home. Butler continued to be absent, Herro shot 17 out of 10, 3 points 7 out of 3, free throws 7 out of 4, scoring 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 9 assists with a plus-minus value of +13. With 35.7 seconds left in the final quarter, Herro had a verbal altercation with Amen Thompson, during which Amen grabbed Herro's jersey and performed a suplex on him. Rozier was standing on the sidelines, preparing to come off the bench. Upon seeing Herro being suplexed right in front of him, Rozier rushed over and pinned down Amen Thompson. Multiple players and coaches from both teams ran over; some tried to break up the fight while others wanted to join in, causing chaos on the court. Security personnel slowly entered the field, with two standing in front of Herro. After reviewing the footage, the referees ejected six players at once: four from the Rockets - head coach Udoka, assistant coach Sullivan, Jalen Green, and Amen Thompson - and two from the Heat - Rozier and Herro. Tim Reynolds, a Heat reporter, tweeted his frustration with the decision: "Herro was the one who got suplexed, so why did the referees eject him?" After the game, Rockets head coach Udoka said, "They were butting heads, with some chest-to-chest contact; it was just one man being stronger than the other." The Lord took a look at the comments from foreign netizens, many of whom mocked Herro for being too weak and getting thrown…

This season, the Rockets have continued to make progress and are currently firmly ranked among the top three in the Western Conference. Unless there are serious injuries or other unexpected events, it should not be a big problem for the Rockets to return to the playoff stage. However, the Rockets' shortcomings are also obvious, which is the lack of a true first-line superstar. Once the game enters the decisive moments, the Rockets can only rely on defense to win. If the opponent has an excellent shooting performance, the Rockets find it difficult to respond offensively. As a result, they have been overwhelmed or reversed at critical moments several times. From the current situation, the Rockets are considered the top disruptor in the league. Noted journalist Tim Bontemps lists three advantages of Houston, including the fact that the Rockets have many young players with significant potential and room for growth; even if they cannot retain all these young players, packaging some of them with draft picks to trade away can still bring substantial gains to the Rockets; head coach Ime Udoka is highly skilled, and since he joined the Rockets, he has brought about many positive changes to the team and has received a lot of praise and acclaim within the circle of superstars. It can be said that for Rockets general manager Rafael Stone, he needs to make some zero-for-all operations next, which may change the landscape of the league and make the Rockets a championship contender again. Since drafting Reed Sheppard, several young players have been collectively referred to…