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Can the Rockets Ignite at Footprint Center Against the Suns?

As the Houston Rockets prepare to face off against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center, fans are eager to see if their team can turn around a challenging season. The upcoming clash scheduled for March 3rd is set to be a crucial one for both sides.


HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 27:   Grayson Allen #8 of the Phoenix Suns grabs a rebound during the game against the Houston Rockets on December 27, 2023 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. 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 Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Rockets have had an inconsistent run in their recent games. Despite showing potential with a victory over the New York Knicks, where they edged out with a 105-103 win, their performance has been marred by defensive issues. In that game, they managed to maintain a lead for nearly 40 minutes and showcased some resilience on defense with an efficiency rating of 119.


However, this resilience was not evident in their subsequent matches. A loss against the Memphis Grizzlies saw them concede 121 points while only scoring 113 themselves. Their defensive rating took a hit as they allowed too many points per possession (1.19), indicating that tightening up defense will be key in their next game.


HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 27:   Jalen Green #4 of the Houston Rockets drives to the basket during the game against the Phoenix Suns on December 27, 2023 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. 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 Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images)

Another concern for Houston has been turnovers and foul trouble; these were significant factors in their defeat against Atlanta Hawks where they lost by nine points and posted an efficiency game score lower than both previous games mentioned.


On offense, there's room for optimism as Houston has demonstrated an ability to score inside the paint effectively and capitalize on fast-break opportunities when available. They'll need to continue exploiting these strengths while also improving three-point shooting accuracy which currently stands at around thirty percent from beyond the arc.


HOUSTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 27: Yuta Watanabe #18 of the Phoenix Suns defends Cam Whitmore #7 of the Houston Rockets during the game at Toyota Center on December 27, 2023 in Houston, Texas. 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 Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images)

The venue could play its part too; playing away at Footprint Center means dealing with not just another team but also an unfamiliar court and crowd noise – factors that can influence player performance.


In conclusion, if Houston wants success in Phoenix, it will require improved defense without compromising offensive production – striking this balance is essential for victory.


Fans can catch all the action live on Space City Home Network channel 674 or attend in person at Footprint Center come March 3rd at what promises to be an exciting encounter starting from 02:00 AM UTC (which is February 2nd, 7:00 PM Central Time).

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