The Houston Rockets came into Toronto for an early tip off against the Raptors, and it was clear early on that defense was optional. The Rockets scored 30 or more points in every quarter and shot 57.5 percent from the field including 43.3 percent from the three-point line. Despite Josh Okogie being in the starting lineup for the second straight game, the Rockets struggled with perimeter defense themselves, allowing the Raptors to shoot 50.6 percent from the field and 52.5 percent from three.
The Toronto
Raptors made 21 three-pointers in this game, totaling eight more than the Rockets, with Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram accounting for nine of them alone. The Raptors were able to get just about any look they wanted from behind the arc, which should be a major concern for Ime Udoka and Rockets fans alike moving forward. Despite the issues on defense, the Rockets dominated the game in several categories.
Houston outrebounded the Raptors 61-29, with 17 offensive rebounds leading to 15 second-chance points. While they didn’t start the double big lineup it was featured throughout the game and led to a 66-38 advantage in points in the paint for the Rockets. The ball movement was sloppy at times, as told by the 15 turnovers, but the Rockets did rack up 31 assists, and 27 fast break points. Kevin Durant continues to be a bucket, scoring 31 points on 11-of-19 shooting, including 4-of-8 from the three-point line. Jabari Smith Jr. had a strong showing with 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, on 50 percent shooting from the field, hitting 4-of-9 from the arc. Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun each chipped in with 18 points each. All and all it was a positive step for the Rockets who get to .500 for the season at 2-2.
The Rockets are currently the number one ranked offense in the entire league (127.3). You read that correctly. They are the 22nd ranked defense (117.1had in mind). Probably not what Ime Udoka had in mind when training camp started, but the Rockets do have plenty of time to get it together on that end of the floor. Their next chance comes against the Boston Celtics on Saturday in Beantown. The game will be televised on Space City Home Network and can be heard on Sports Talk 790 KBME. Chat with your fellow TDS faithful here on The Dream Shake Game Thread.
