Surging Rockets Beat Celtics after Knocking Off Cavaliers Twice
Rockets’ Winning Streak Continues
The Houston Rockets have been one of the NBA’s more surprising teams this season. After their past three games, they shouldn’t shock anyone. The Rockets beat the Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland Cavaliers twice last week before traveling to Boston and pulling out a 114-112 victory over the defending champion Celtics on Monday night.
Rockets’ Coach Ime Udoka’s Perspective
“We’re over halfway through now and our record is what it is, so it’s not just a fluke or anything,” Houston coach Ime Udoka said. “People watch film and see the physicality and the way that we play, it’s a little different than the rest of the league, maybe that catches people off guard initially, but I wouldn’t say we’re sneaking up on anybody anymore at this point in the season.”
Rockets’ Impressive Record
Houston (31-14), which is second in the Western Conference, posted its ninth win in 11 games on Monday. Its record is a few percentage points better than that of the defending NBA champion Celtics (32-15).
Rockets’ Historic Win
The Cavs and Celtics were a combined 104-28 (.788) entering their games against Houston. The Rockets became the first team in NBA history to win three straight games against teams with that high of a winning percentage, with a minimum of 40 games for each opponent, according to OptaSTATS.
Rockets’ Balanced Lineup
Led by a balanced lineup featuring Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, veteran Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, and Dillon Brooks, the Rockets have been rolling since their 23-point home loss to the Celtics on Jan. 3.
Rockets’ Confidence Boost
“We feel like we can beat anybody, and this road trip is really proving that,” Thompson said. “We don’t like to lose at home, especially to the Celtics. We just come in here every day and we just try to win.”
Teams Taking Notice
After the Cavaliers finished off their 19-point home win over Detroit on Monday, they spent time in the postgame locker room watching the Rockets’ victory. “We’re just playing hard, playing together,” said Brooks, who finished with a 36 points against Boston, including a 10-of-15 performance from 3-point range.
Up Next for the Rockets
The Rockets are plenty confident, but they understand big wins mean nothing if they can’t follow them up. They’ll get that chance Tuesday night when they play at Atlanta. “Playing some of the top teams obviously gives us some confidence,” Udoka said.
Conclusion
The Rockets’ recent success is a testament to their hard work and determination. With a balanced lineup and a strong team effort, they’re becoming a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference.
FAQs
* What is the Rockets’ current record?
The Rockets are 31-14, which is second in the Western Conference.
* Who are some of the key players for the Rockets?
Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, veteran Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, and Dillon Brooks are some of the key players for the Rockets.
* What is the Rockets’ record against top teams?
The Rockets have won three straight games against teams with a combined 104-28 record, making them the first team in NBA history to do so.
