Rockets Start the New Year with Depleted Reservoirs
Rockets Start the New Year with Depleted Reservoirs
On a recent Sunday, the Rockets managed to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, outlasting the Los Angeles Lakers in the final minute for a thrilling 119-115 triumph. This triumph upped the Rockets' record to an impressive 23-12. The week prior, however, had seen the Rockets endure a 1-2 stretch, with their victory over the Lakers serving as the culmination of a five-game homestand that resulted in a 2-3 record for Houston.
Last weekend's home woes began with a lackluster performance against the Miami Heat, who left Houston with a 104-100 victory. Tempers flared, resulting in a two-game suspension for forward Amen Thompson following an altercation with Heat guard Tyler Herro. The Rockets fared better against the Dallas Mavericks, who were also missing star Luka Doncic, to win 110-99. However, on Friday, a depleted Rockets side, missing not only Thompson but also Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr., were soundly defeated by the Boston Celtics, 109-86.
Looking ahead, the Rockets will hit the road to take on a struggling Washington Wizards team, who have managed only six wins in 27 outings. On Thursday, they'll travel to Memphis to face a Grizzlies team they've been battling for second seed in the Western Conference. The conclusion to their week will see them take on a resurgent Hawks team in Atlanta in a Saturday afternoon affair.
Life Without 'Bari
Tragically, the Rockets suffered a significant setback earlier in the week when star forward Jabari Smith Jr. was ruled out with a fractured left hand sustained during a shootaround prior to a game against the Boston Celtics. Expected to be sidelined for 4 to 6 weeks, with the possibility of an extended absence, this injury presents a substantial challenge for the Rockets.
Smith had been a critical component of the Rockets offense, averaging 11.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game before his injury. With an impressive 43.5% shooting overall and a respectable 35.4% from long-range, Smith had proven instrumental to the Rockets' second-ranked defense prior to his injury.
His absence necessitated a shift in the lineup, with veteran forward Jae'Sean Tate assuming the starting power forward role in his absence against the Boston Celtics. Smith's eventual return will likely see Tate revert to his backup role, although second-year forward Amen Thompson is expected to retain his starting position.
Smith, the third overall pick in the 2022 draft, is currently earning $9.77 million this season on a rookie contract. Following this season, the Rockets will have the opportunity to extend Smith's contract, providing they opt to keep the young forward beyond his current deal.
[1] "Rockets defeat Lakers in nail-biter to win 5th game in last 7." ABC13, 15 Jan. 2025, https://abc13.com/sports/rockets-beat-lakers-mike-dantoni-119-115-nba/12024974/
[2] "Smith Jr. ruled out with hand injury, will miss 4-6 weeks." NBC Sports Edge, 4 Jan. 2025, https://www.nbcsportsedge.com/fantasy-basketball/news-analysis/smith-jr-ruled-out-with-hand-injury-will-miss-4-6-weeks
[3] "Rockets injury report for Thursday, Jan. 11 vs. NBA Grizzlies." Houston Chronicle, 11 Jan. 2025, https://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/rockets-injury-report-thursday-jan-11-vs-nba-grizzlies-16598640.php?t=e7ba376d102f7e2fd04c1cdb8bbabd99df107d07
[4] "Smith to miss minimum 4 weeks with fractured hand." Sportsnet, 4 Jan. 2025, https://www.sportsnet.ca/hoops/nba/smith-misses-minimum-4-weeks-fractured-hand/
[5] "Jabari Smith Jr. to miss at least a month with fractured hand." ESPN, 4 Jan. 2025, https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/34687418/jabari-smith-jr-out-least-month-hand-fracture
In the wake of Smith's injury, the Rockets are now tasked with navigating their schedule without their top scorer, who was averaging significant points and rebounds before his absence. The financial implications of Smith's injury are also notable, as he is currently earning a substantial salary as a rookie.
As a result of Smith's injury, the spotlight has shifted to other players like Jae'Sean Tate, who has been called upon to step up in his absence. The Rockets will need to rely on their depth and teamwork to maintain their momentum in the sports world, where success often depends on both talent and financial resources.