Jalen Green sets Rockets rookie record, Houston still loses to Celtics 107-97

Jalen Green had his best game with the Houston Rockets, going for 30 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks, and he set a new Rockets rookie record with 8 made threes in a game. Overall, he shot 11-18 from the field and 8-10 from deep. The previous Rockets record was held by Cuttino Mobley and Michael Dickerson with 7, both in 1999.

Despite Green’s stellar performance, the Rockets could only hang for about a half, as the Boston Celtics pulled away after the break for a 107-97 win. The Rockets were only down 53-51 at halftime, but Boston had a big third quarter, going up by as many as 20. But probably the most positive aspect of the night was the Rockets were still playing hard and they cut the lead in the fourth quarter a few times but could never quite challenge again before the final 10-point deficit.

The Rockets also got 20 points and 9 rebounds from Christian Wood, but he shot just 5-14 from the field. Houston also got 12 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals from Jae’Sean Tate, and they got 15 points from Kevin Porter Jr., though he really struggled despite being one of the top scorers. He went just 5-12 from the field, had another sloppy night with 8 turnovers and wound up fouling out in the fourth quarter. The Rockets are going to need more from him if they are going to develop properly.

The Rockets also had an ugly night from Eric Gordon. He played 26 minutes but scored just 2 points, with 4 rebounds, and 2 assists, and while he’s been able to provide a veteran presence at times, the Rockets would be better served moving him sooner rather than later to help open up the rotation.

Alperen Sengun had 7 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assist, and 3 steals, but he also had 5 fouls in the just 19 minutes. But he also made several eye-popping plays. Alpie’s going to be more than fine. Young bigs often struggle with fouls in the beginning of their careers, but as he settles in, he’ll be able to spend more time on the court.

As for Boston, they were led by Jayosn Tatum with 31 points and 9 rebounds, and he took over the game at times. They also got 17 points, 10 boards, 3 steals, and 3 blocks in a throwback game from Al Horford, and they got 18 each from Dennis Schroder and Grant Williams.

The big story for Rockets fans tonight, however, despite the loss, was Green. I’ll leave you with this parting shot. The future looks a little brighter tonight.