Opinion
3 min read

Rockets to Ignite Home Court Advantage Against Visiting Wizards

As the Houston Rockets prepare to face off against the Washington Wizards at the Toyota Center, fans are eager to see if their team can harness the momentum from their recent victory over the Phoenix Suns. The Rockets' performance on March 3rd showcased a team that, despite its struggles this season, still has plenty of firepower. With a 118-109 win under their belt, they demonstrated resilience and an ability to close out games.


WASHINGTON, DC -? APRIL 9: Corey Kispert #24 of the Washington Wizards shoots a three point basket against the Houston Rockets  on April 9, 2023 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. 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 Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Rockets' offense was firing on all cylinders during that game. They put up an impressive 38 points in the first quarter and maintained a strong scoring pace throughout. Their fast break efficiency was particularly notable at 77 percent, contributing significantly to their total score with 28 fast break points. This kind of transition play will be crucial against WAS.


However, it wasn't just about scoring; HOU's defense also stepped up when it mattered most. Holding PHX to just 109 points is no small feat and indicates that when focused, HOU can effectively disrupt opposing offenses.


WASHINGTON, DC -? APRIL 9: Jordan Goodwin #7 of the Washington Wizards drives to the basket against the Houston Rockets  on April 9, 2023 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. 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 Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images)

Looking back further at HOU's February performances provides insight into both strengths and areas for improvement. Their loss against OKC on February 28th highlighted some defensive shortcomings as they allowed 112 points but also showed tenacity in offensive rebounding with a commendable effort resulting in second-chance opportunities.


The upcoming game presents an opportunity for HOU to build consistency after these mixed results. The key will be maintaining defensive intensity while continuing to exploit fast break chances created by turnovers and missed shots by WAS.


WASHINGTON, DC -? APRIL 9: Anthony Gill #16 of the Washington Wizards drives to the basket against the Houston Rockets  on April 9, 2023 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. 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 Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images)

WAS comes into this matchup with its own set of challenges but cannot be underestimated as every NBA team has potential game-changers who can shift momentum quickly.


For fans looking forward to supporting HOU in person or from home, mark your calendars for March 14th at Toyota Center where tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM local time (Central Time). The action will be broadcasted live on Space City Home Network as well as MNMT so you won't miss any part of what promises to be an exciting contest between these two teams.

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