The Rockets have one last test before the All-Star break. It comes on a back-to-back against the Sacramento Kings.
Luckily, the Kings are also on a back-to-back. Unfortunately, the Kings played in Dallas last night so they likely beat the Rockets back to Houston.
For the Kings, Zach Randolph hasn’t gotten much attention but he’s averaging 15/7 and shooting better from every part of the court than his career averages. His interior offense has given everyone trouble over the last 10+ years, and the Rockets have suffered at his hands just like everyone else.
De’Aaron Fox is where most of the headlines go, and for good reason. The rookie is averaging 11/4/3 and with George Hill gone, Fox looks to get even more run at the point guard spot. His speed gave Houston trouble when these teams played all the way back on the second night of the season.
The other starters for the Kings are Willie Cauley-Stein, Justin Jackson, and Bogdan Bogdanovic. That’s right, the Kings are starting three rookies right now.
Off the bench, the Kings have Vince Carter, Buddy Hield, Garrett Temple, and former Morey target Kosta Koufos. That’s a solid bench unit to take on Houston’s squad, and could be key to who comes out on top.
Again, Joe Johnson has not signed yet so he’s not available. MDA has stated that Trevor Ariza is probably going to come back after the All-Star break. On the bright side, Brandan Wright might get some run tonight, especially if Houston wants to give Nene the second night of a back-to-back off.
Oh, and in case you needed a reminder of the last time the Rockets were on a long winning streak and the Kings came to town:
Tip-off is at 7pm CT