Rockets Hope Roster Adjustments Continue to Pay Off

The Houston Rockets have been experimenting with their lineup, and it paid off in a 119-111 win over the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday. But as they prepare to face the Golden State Warriors on Thursday, they’ll be missing key pieces yet again.

Tari Eason Shines, But Rotation Challenges Continue

Tari Eason had one of his best performances of the season against the Suns, putting up 25 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and three steals. Alongside him, Jalen Green (22 points), Dillon Brooks (18), Amen Thompson (18 points, 11 assists, 10 rebounds), and Alperen Sengun (17 points, 13 rebounds) all contributed to a well-balanced attack.

However, Eason and center Steven Adams will not be available against the Warriors due to injury management restrictions that prevent them from playing back-to-back games.

Coach Ime Udoka has been forced to get creative with his lineups due to injuries, especially with Fred VanVleet (ankle) and Jabari Smith Jr. (hand) still sidelined. Smith is expected to return after the All-Star break, but until then, the Rockets will continue adjusting on the fly.

“Some guys will be in different roles,” Udoka said. “With Amen starting and Jabari coming back and Fred getting healthy, we’ve had a chance to look at what guys can do in different positions. Hopefully, Steven and Tari can eventually play back-to-backs, and we can get back to using our depth to overwhelm people. That’s what worked earlier in the season.”

Warriors Stumble After Strong Start with Jimmy Butler

The Warriors suffered their first loss since acquiring Jimmy Butler at the trade deadline, falling 111-107 to the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday. It was a frustrating defeat, as they rallied from a 15-point deficit in the third quarter but couldn’t close it out.

Despite the loss, Stephen Curry and Butler showed glimpses of what they can do together. The two combined for 22 points in the fourth quarter, nearly pulling off the comeback.

“Throughout the game, we just had little mental mistakes,” said Gary Payton II. “One mistake can lead to a flurry of shots and makes. We’ve just got to lock in mentally.”

How Golden State is Adjusting to Butler

Curry led the Warriors with 25 points, five rebounds, and eight assists, while Butler added 21 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. The chemistry is still a work in progress, but the early signs are promising.

“It’s made sense so far,” Curry said. “Jimmy brings so much to both ends of the floor. He’s a high-IQ player, a competitor, and plays under control. We’re still figuring out lineups, but it’s been good so far. We just need to build some momentum.”

With a seven-game road trip wrapping up after the All-Star break, the Warriors have a chance to finish strong against a short-handed Rockets squad. Meanwhile, Houston will rely on Green, Sengun, and Thompson to step up in the absence of Eason and Adams.

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Can the Rockets Keep Up the Momentum?

Houston has struggled with injuries and rotation changes, but they’ve still managed to put together some strong performances. The Warriors are adjusting to their new star, and both teams will be looking to head into the break on a high note.

Which team will step up on Thursday? Tune in to find out.