Opinion
3 min read

Can the Houston Rockets Outmaneuver the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum?

As the Houston Rockets prepare to face off against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward the momentum from their recent performances. The upcoming game on February 15th is not just another fixture; it's a chance for the Rockets to solidify their standing and showcase their growth as a cohesive unit.


MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - DECEMBER 15: Dillon Brooks #9 of the Houston Rockets goes to the basket against Bismack Biyombo #18 of the Memphis Grizzlies during the second half at FedExForum on December 15, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

The Rockets have shown flashes of brilliance and resilience in past games. On December 24th, they edged out a win against the New Orleans Pelicans with a score of 106-104. Their ability to maintain a lead for over 21 minutes in that game speaks volumes about their tenacity. Despite only blocking two shots, they made up for it with nine steals and an impressive haul of 53 rebounds.


Their offense was firing on all cylinders during their encounter with Dallas Mavericks on December 23rd, where they secured an emphatic victory scoring 122 points. The most staggering statistic from that game was not just their biggest lead of 38 points but also how long they maintained control – leading for over 46 minutes! They shot an effective field goal percentage of 54 percent and were particularly dominant in paint, scoring two-thirds of their attempts.


MEMPHIS, TN - DECEMBER 15:  Jeff Green #32 of the Houston Rockets  drives to the basket during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on December 15, 2023 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

However, it wasn't all smooth sailing; when facing Atlanta Hawks on December 21st, despite putting up a valiant effort and scoring heavily with paint dominance matching that against Dallas (51 percent), they fell short by seven points in a high-scoring affair ending at 127-134. This loss highlighted areas needing improvement – particularly defensive strategies as both teams scored efficiently.


The Grizzlies will be no easy opponent; however, HOU has demonstrated that when they find rhythm within quarters three and four (as seen against NOP), they can outscore any adversary. With players stepping up from both starting lineup and bench contributing significant points (19 bench points versus NOP), HOU's depth could be pivotal in overcoming MEM's home advantage.


MEMPHIS, TN - DECEMBER 15:  Jabari Smith Jr. #10 of the Houston Rockets plays defense against Desmond Bane #22 of the Memphis Grizzlies during the game on December 15, 2023 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

It is crucial for HOU to start strong right out of the gate while maintaining focus throughout each quarter – avoiding turnovers which have been costly before (12 turnovers versus NOP). If HOU can replicate or exceed its performance from previous games such as shooting above average from beyond arc (31 percent three-point shooting versus NOP) while tightening defense around perimeter and inside paint area then victory is within reach.


Fans should mark calendars for this thrilling matchup scheduled on February 15th at FedExForum starting at 8:00 PM ET. Those cheering on from afar can catch all action live via Space City Home Network channel number:674 ensuring not miss moment as these two teams battle it out court side.

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