NBA Playoffs Showcase Rockets' Proficiencies and Imperfections
Last week, the Rockets managed a 2-1 record, with their NBA Cup journey concluding on Saturday in the semifinals, losing to the dominant Oklahoma City Thunder by 16 points, 111-96. Earlier in the week, they triumphed over the Clippers, who were missing ex-Rockets star James Harden, with a score of 117-106. Then, on Wednesday, they secured a narrow victory against the Warriors due to a disputed foul call in the final moments, ending the game 91-90. This victory propelled them into the semifinals against the Thunder.
Saturday's showdown against the Thunder saw the two finest teams in the league clash, with Houston holding its ground in the opening halves. However, in the second half, it was evident that Houston lacked the necessary firepower offensively as the Thunder gradually pulled away as the match progressed. The Rockets' top three offensive weapons, Alperen Sengun, Fred VanVleet, and Jalen Green, all struggled significantly during the game. The encounter served as a humbling reminder of the gap between the Rockets' remarkable progression this season, particularly on defense, and the esteemed league where the Thunder hold dominance.
The Rockets will enjoy a few days of respite before hosting the lowly New Orleans Pelicans at the Toyota Center on Thursday. The schedule gets somewhat less challenging in the upcoming week.
VanVleet's Continued Struggles
VanVleet contributed only eight points each in his last two outings, scoring 3 out of 13 attempts against the Warriors and 3 out of 15 against the Thunder. He was unavailable for the Clippers game due to injury. For the season, VanVleet has a dismal 37.7% shooting accuracy from the field and an even worse 30.3% from beyond the arc. He averages 15.3 points and 6 assists per game. Over his career, VanVleet maintains a dismal 37.7% shooting percentage from the field and 30.3% from long range. In November, he scored 41.7% from the field and 33% from long range; however, this dropped to 33.8% from the field and 24% from long range in December.
In essence, VanVleet's performance has been less than satisfactory. With a hefty salary of $42.8 million this season and a club option for next season worth $44.89 million, the team may find itself forced to reconsider their decision to extend his contract should his current form persist. The Rockets have until June 29, 2025, to make this critical decision.
Given VanVleet's struggles, it could be advantageous for Udoka to provide Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard with additional court time to explore the potential of a post-VanVleet era for the squad. VanVleet's difficulties make it easier for the team to weigh their present and future interests.
The team's financial commitment to VanVleet, with his current salary of $42.8 million and a potential future option of $44.89 million, raises concerns due to his subpar performance this season. Given his poor shooting statistics and the potential for improvement in younger players, the Rockets might need to reevaluate their decision to extend his contract.
The current slump in VanVleet's performance, combined with his substantial salary, could create opportunities for Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard to gain more court time, potentially shaping a new era for the team.
