In their sixth match of the 2023 season, the Houston Rockets faced off against the Sacramento Kings. While triumphing a convincing 122-97 victory, they delivered one of their most outstanding performances in recent years. Houston came in with a stellar defensive effort and timely three-point shooting, propelling them to a 3-3 season record.?Jalen Green led the charge with 23 points, while Alperen Sengun contributed significantly with 17 points. In the absence of De’Aaron Fox, Keon Ellis topped the Kings’ scoring with a game-high 15 points.
With a three-game winning streak, the Rockets have finally reached a .500 win-loss ratio for the first time since 2021. While Green showcased remarkable efficiency, Sengun played a pivotal role in lifting the Rockets; particularly until the third quarter. Beyond scoring, he took on the playmaker role, coming close to a potential triple-double had the game been more closely contested.
Alperen Sengun is balling out this season
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In yet another noteworthy performance, Alperen Sengun achieved a double-double. However, he did it not in the traditional big man fashion of points and rebounds. Instead, Sengun delivered a remarkable 17 points, 12 assists, and eight rebounds in the game. In the process, he etched his name beside Hakeem Olajuwon for the most assists provided in a single game as a center in Rockets’ history.
Nothing but a bunch of #Rockets legends. pic.twitter.com/EuV4NsRBIF
? ???? (@BiasedHouston) November 7, 2023
Sengun is also establishing himself as a rising star in the 2023 season, with stats reminiscent of Nikola Jokic. Across the first seven games of the season, he is maintaining an impressive stat line of 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists, solidifying his impact on the team.
Currently, Sengun is regarded as one of the top 10 international players in the NBA; sharing the list with names like Kristaps Porzingis, Joel Embiid, Domantas Sabonis, Dennis Schr?der, and others.
Alperen ?eng?n through the first 7 games of the season:
18.2 PTS
8.5 REB
7.0 ASTNikola Jokic is the ONLY other Center in NBA history to start a season with these numbers. pic.twitter.com/Jvt7Mh7F0R
? Bradeaux (@BradeauxNBA) November 7, 2023
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Tari Eason might return in the next game for the Rockets
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While the Houston Rockets are performing exceptionally well, they have been missing a crucial player in their regular rotation: Tari Eason. In a preseason matchup against the Indiana Pacers, Eason suffered a stress reaction in his left leg. The injury caused him to sit out for the remainder of the preseason and the entire 2023 season thus far.
Now, the Rockets are gearing up for their upcoming game against the Los Angeles Lakers, and there’s promising news for the team. Eason’s return to the court is closer than ever this season. Coach Ime Udoka recently revealed that Eason had actively participated in on-court workouts with the team during shoot-around.
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Furthermore, Udoka announced that Eason would join the team for practice on Tuesday, just a day before they meet with the Lakers.
Will Eason’s return strengthen the Rockets enough to take them past the Lakers? Or will LeBron and his team get one over them? Leave your thoughts below.