2023 Turn the page On January 2, 2024, Beijing time, the Rockets ushered in the first game of the new year and faced the Pistons at home. After three straight losses, they have now dropped to 10th in the West, and their playoff qualification is in jeopardy.
Despite being in 10th place in the West, the team leading 11-13 is only one and one respectively5 and 6 wins. In particular, the Grizzlies, who are closely chasing behind, have a lot of momentum after Morant's return, while the Rockets' away record is really ridiculous. The difference of 6 wins is actually not big, once the Rockets suffer consecutive losses on the road, and the Grizzlies continue to soar, the Rockets are likely to slip to 12th place and lose the qualification for the play-offs.
Therefore, for the Rockets, it is essential to play their home game well. They will have four consecutive home games against the Pistons, Nets, Timberwolves and Bucks, and although the Bucks and Timberwolves are not easy to play, they will try to win them all. Because after 4 home games, they will suffer 6 consecutive away games, and with their ability to play away, it would be good to win 2-3.
So, although the Rockets face the difficulties of Dillon and Ja Jr. being unable to play due to injuries, they must grit their teeth and play their home games. In particular, it is necessary to make good use of the two rookies Amen Thompson and Whitmore, so that the Rockets can be more dynamic and competitive on both ends of the offensive and defensive ends!