The Rockets are set to battle the Thunder in their first game of the NBA Cup Semifinals. One thing has the fans on their toes: Is Dillon Brooks playing? If the Thunder is going to unleash its explosive offense with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Brooks‘ defensive game could be just what is needed to keep them at bay—at least, for a short time.

Let’s be real—Brooks has been a game-changer for Houston this season. Love him or hate him, the guy brings energy, defense, and just enough offense to keep defenses honest. He’s putting up 12.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game, and if you’ve been watching, you know his real value isn’t in the box score. Brooks locks up the best scorers in the league and isn’t afraid to get in anyone’s face. That’s exactly the kind of presence Houston needs against Oklahoma City Thunder’s offensive firepower. However, he is ‘Questionable’ for the game tonight.

Brooks has a history of showing up big against the Thunder. The last time he faced them, he dropped 16 points on super-efficient shooting and locked down his assignment to under 40% shooting. That’s the kind of performance Houston needs in a do-or-die game like this. His ability to frustrate scorers and force turnovers has been a huge part of Houston’s success this season. Without him, it’s going to be an uphill battle, no doubt about it.

But now, with Brooks questionable, we’re left wondering: who’s going to step up if he’s out?

DD : Day-To-Day

If Brooks is unable to play, the Rockets will need players like Tari Eason to take on larger roles. No pressure, right? Tate is the ultimate hustler, but going up against someone like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is no joke. Eason has the tools, but he’s still learning the ropes, and foul trouble has become an issue for him.

The Rockets’ frontcourt, including Alperen Şengün and Jabari Smith Jr., will also need to focus on defense. Although Şengün has excelled on offense this season, defense is not his strong suit. Jabari’s length may help slow down OKC’s shooters, but it will take a whole team effort if Brooks isn’t out there leading the way.

If Brooks is out, Houston will have to rely heavily on Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, and Şengün. This trio has carried the Rockets offensively, averaging more than 60 points per game. Green’s explosiveness, Fred’s leadership, and Şengün’s clever playmaking can keep the Rockets in the game, but it will require near-perfect effort.

On defense, don’t be shocked if Ime Udoka employs zone coverage to limit OKC’s shooting and driving lanes. It’s not ideal, but desperate circumstances call for inventive solutions.

Rockets fans, it’s time to buckle up

This is the kind of game that could set the tone for the rest of the season. Let’s be real—everybody is hyped about the NBA Cup, and the Rockets have been one of the most exciting teams to watch this year. Getting to the semifinals is already a big accomplishment, but this team isn’t just here to participate—they’re here to win.

For Rockets fans, this is one of those moments where you hold your breath and hope for the best. The stakes couldn’t be higher—it’s win or go home. A victory here could give the team a ton of momentum heading into the rest of the season, not just for the NBA Cup but for their overall playoff push. This game has the potential to be one of those “turning point” moments that we look back on and say, “That’s when we knew the Rockets were for real.”

So, what’s it going to be? Will Brooks suit up and help the Rockets take down one of the hottest teams in the league? Or will Houston have to find a way to rally without him? Either way, Rockets fans better get ready for a rollercoaster of a game. Let’s just hope we get some good news about Brooks before tip-off. Rockets Nation is counting on it!