Defensive intensity and a crucial third-quarter surge propelled the Rockets past Atlanta, showcasing resilience and bringing them back to .500 on the road.
Coming off of a disappointing loss to San Antonio, the Rockets had to be ready to suit up again less than 24 hours later. Through the first 125 seconds in Atlanta, they appeared to be anything but ready.
Last night, Ime Udoka called his first timeout right as the Hawks went up 7-0. One can only imagine what was said in the huddle, but Houston went on to outscore Atlanta 23-16 in the final 9:55 following his early stoppage.
Now knotted at 23 to end the quarter, the battle was on. This low scoring affair had multiple lead changes in the second quarter, with KD giving Houston their first lead on his patented mid-range jumper with 6:34 remaining.
After only combining for 85 points, the 43-42 halftime lead let Rockets fans know this was going to be a defensive game.
Jabari Smith Jr. had already tied his career high with four blocks in the first half, but the offense is really what blew the game open. Scoring five straight points pushed the lead to seven, contributing to their 35-24 third quarter.
Holding their opponent to a season low 86 points is a true testament to their defensive focus. 14 blocks is also a season high for the team, and only one behind the Mavericks league high this year, per StatMuse.
A wonderful way to lock in on the road and pull themselves back to .500 away from home. An ugly, defensive oriented win when the offense struggled mightily in the first half. The type of resilience the Rockets will need for their upcoming back-to-backs, covered on Roundtable.