The Houston Rockets returned to winning ways after losing to San Antonio.
They defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 122-115 in an impressive game, overcoming a 50-61 halftime deficit with a dominant performance in the third and fourth quarters.
One of the keys to the Houston Rockets’ success was their rebounding advantage, with 20 offensive boards to Milwaukee’s seven.
The Rockets also shot efficiently, shooting 53.3 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from 3-point range, with six players reaching double digits in scoring.
This game exemplified why the Rockets traded Kevin Durant.
The former MVP demonstrated elite scoring efficiency, making 11 of 15 field goal attempts, making both 3-point attempts, and adding seven assists.
Durant’s 31-point performance marked his second 30-plus point game against Houston this season and helped the team improve to 6-3.
He received capable support from No. 2 star Alperen Sengun, who contributed 23 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists.
Im Udoka once again started Josh Okogie at point guard, but this game exposed a serious flaw in his judgment. Okogie had just one rebound and one assist in 17 minutes, but did not score.
Okogie had five steals against San Antonio and contributed zero defensive takes against Milwaukee.
His lackluster performance raises serious questions about whether Udoka should reconsider his starting lineup.
Fortunately for Houston, Reed Shepard has provided excellent backup production. He made 4 of 6 3-point shots and added 2 steals for 16 points.
His consistency over the past three games suggests he may be worthy of Okogie’s starting spot.
Giannis Antetokounmpo had a great performance with 37 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists. The two-time MVP basically performed at the elite level expected throughout the contest.
However, his exceptional individual performance was unable to secure victory due to the lack of proper support.
Ryan Rollins was Milwaukee’s second leading scorer with 19 points, but was not a consistent difference maker and finished with a minus-15 rating.
Myles Turner contributed just 13 points with one 3-pointer. Turner’s work, thought to be a second star, proved inadequate.
The disparity in performance between Giannis and the supporting cast indicates the Bucks will need to address roster deficiencies through trades or strategic additions.