Opinion
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Houston Rockets Set to Challenge New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center

As the Houston Rockets prepare to face off against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center, fans are eager to see if their team can maintain their recent momentum. The Rockets have been showing signs of a resurgence, and their performance in the upcoming game will be a testament to their progress this season.


LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 2:  Jalen Green #4 of the Houston Rockets shoots a free throw during the game  on December 2, 2023 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)

In their last encounter with the Dallas Mavericks on December 23rd, the Rockets dominated with an impressive 122-96 victory. Their offensive efficiency was through the roof, boasting a field goal percentage of 48 percent and an even more remarkable free throw percentage of 83 percent. The team's ability to control rebounds was also evident as they outrebounded Dallas by ten boards.


The bench played a significant role in that win, contributing a solid 42 points. This depth will be crucial against New Orleans, especially considering how well-rounded performances have been pivotal for HOU this season. Another key factor will be maintaining defensive intensity; they held Dallas to just under 35 percent shooting from the field and will need similar efforts against NOP's dynamic scorers.


However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for HOU recently; they faced a tough challenge from Atlanta Hawks on December 21st but fell short by seven points in a high-scoring affair that ended at 134-127. Despite shooting nearly perfect from the free-throw line and converting an impressive 47 percent from beyond the arc, defensive lapses cost them dearly as they allowed ATL to shoot over half from both field goals and three-point range.


Looking further back at December 19th's nail-biter against Cleveland Cavaliers which went into overtime before HOU succumbed by five points (135-130), there were positives despite defeat. They showed resilience fighting back into games and had six players scoring in double figures indicating that when push comes to shove, this team has multiple weapons.


The upcoming game presents another opportunity for HOU not only to showcase its offensive prowess but also demonstrate improvements defensively. It's essential for them not just focus on scoring but also tighten up when guarding opponents – something that could make or break their performance against NOP who are known for their aggressive playstyle.


Fans should expect an intense battle where every possession counts as both teams look eager to establish dominance early on in what promises to be an electrifying match-up right before Christmas Eve celebrations begin.


Remember Rocket fans; mark your calendars for December 24th! Tip-off is scheduled at Smoothie King Center where you can catch all action live via Space City Home Network channel number 674 or if you're rooting for home side tune into BSNO channel number 676-4. Don't miss out!

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