Your source for Houston Rockets news, rumors, analysis, stats, and scores from a fan perspective. Tonight marks a new chapter in the Rockets' quest for the NBA Cup.
Last year, Houston showed the league they were no longer a struggling team. A key moment was winning their NBA Cup group, securing the top spot with a game left to play after a victory on the neon green court in Minnesota. Although the Sacramento Kings made 15 straight shots on the final day, the Rockets clinched a home game in the knockout stages.
This home advantage helped Houston eliminate the Golden State Warriors for the first time in four years. Despite falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the semifinals, it was a pivotal moment for the Rockets and their young players, many of whom had not yet experienced high-stakes playoff games early in their careers.
The San Antonio Spurs could be this season's breakout team, with potential to match the Rockets' past success. Houston, last season, played without Victor Wembanyama—currently the MVP and Defensive Player of the Year candidate—and the reigning Rookie of the Year, Stephon Castle.
De'Aaron Fox and Luke Kornet are questionable for tonight’s game, but Rockets fans remain hopeful that at least one will play. Unfortunately, Dylan Harper will miss the game despite his strong performances recently.
"Even with a loss in the semifinals to the Thunder, it was a big moment for the Rockets and their young players who had not played in meaningful games during their early NBA careers."
"Every Rockets fan reading this is nodding solemnly as I say that at least one, if not both, will definitely be available for tonight’s game."
Author's summary: The Houston Rockets aim to build on last season's breakthrough while facing a strong Spurs team, with key players’ availability crucial to tonight's outcome.