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Houston Rockets vs Boston Celtics: Did Houston's Effort Spark a Turnaround?

In a recent face-off at the Toyota Center, the Houston Rockets and the Boston Celtics showcased their skills in a game that ended with scores of 86-109. The Rockets, now standing at 22-12 for the season, faced off against the Celtics who improved their record to 26-9. Despite a hard-fought battle, the home advantage wasn't enough for Houston to secure a win.


HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 01: Alperen Sengun #28 of the Houston Rockets drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on January 01, 2025 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 2025 NBAE (Photo by Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images)

Houston Rockets' Performance


The game was marked by notable performances from several Rockets players. Jalen Green led his team with an impressive 27 points, showcasing his scoring ability by shooting 48 percent from the field and hitting all of his free throws. His effort on defense was also commendable with two blocks. Alperen Sengun contributed significantly as well, adding 14 points and grabbing seven rebounds while maintaining perfect accuracy from the free-throw line.


Despite these efforts, challenges were evident in Houston's overall gameplay. The team struggled with efficiency throughout the match, ending with an overall field goal percentage of just 36 percent and converting only 28 percent of their attempts from beyond the arc into points. Their defensive play couldn't contain Boston's offense either, allowing them to score 109 points.


HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 01: Dillon Brooks #9 of the Houston Rockets shoots the ball during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on January 01, 2025 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 2025 NBAE (Photo by Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images)

Boston Celtics' Strategy


On the other side of the court, Boston demonstrated why they are among this season's top contenders. Their balanced attack was led by an efficient shooting performance that saw them making half of their shots from both inside and outside three-point range (51 percent field goals made). The Celtics capitalized on turnovers as well, scoring eleven points off Houston’s mistakes.


Their dominance was further highlighted by winning both offensive and defensive battles; grabbing more rebounds (53 compared to Houston’s 47) and blocking twice as many shots (8 compared to Houston’s four). This comprehensive approach allowed them to maintain control over most of this encounter.


Looking ahead for Houston Rockets fans is another opportunity for redemption when they host Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center on January 5th at 7:00 PM EDT. Fans can catch all action live on SportsNet LA or SCHN TV networks as both teams look forward to putting up an exciting show in front of thousands expected in attendance.


As we continue following this season's journey closely, sharing insights about games like these helps keep us connected through every dribble and dunk along our favorite team’s path forward.


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