Houston Rockets vs. San Antonio Spurs Game Preview
Your top source for Houston Rockets news, rumors, analysis, stats, and scores from a fan's perspective.
Last Season's Breakthrough for the Rockets
Tonight marks a new chapter as the Houston Rockets aim for the NBA Cup. Last season, Houston showed the league they were no longer a struggling team. A key moment was winning their NBA Cup group. Their victory on the neon green court in Minnesota secured the group title with a game remaining.
Despite having to anxiously watch the final day—when the Sacramento Kings made 15 consecutive shots—Houston clinched a home game in the knockout stage. This advantage helped them defeat the Golden State Warriors for the first time in four years.
Though the Rockets fell to the Thunder in the semifinals, the experience was significant for their young roster, many of whom had little exposure to high-stakes games early in their careers.
Facing the San Antonio Spurs
This season, the San Antonio Spurs seem poised to replicate last year’s Rockets' success. Notably, last season Houston did not have Victor Wembanyama, who is currently the MVP and Defensive Player of the Year candidate, nor the reigning Rookie of the Year, Stephon Castle.
- De’Aaron Fox and Luke Kornet are uncertain for tonight's game, but most Rockets fans expect at least one will play.
- Dylan Harper will miss the game, which is disappointing given his recent strong performances.
“Houston was able to secure a home game in the knockout stages, which allowed them to finally knock the Golden State Warriors off for the first time in four years.”
“Victor Wembanyama [is] the MVP and DPOY if the season ended today.”
Summary: The Rockets embark on a promising new season with high hopes, facing a Spurs team capable of mirroring last year’s breakthrough, while managing key player availability uncertainties.