Houston Rockets vs. San Antonio Spurs Game Preview
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Rockets' Journey Last Season
Tonight marks the start of a new quest for the Houston Rockets to win 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. With a victory on the neon green court in Minnesota, the Rockets secured their group lead with one game remaining.
They had to wait on other results, as the Sacramento Kings made 15 consecutive shots on the final day, but Houston earned a home game in the knockout stages. This advantage helped them defeat the Golden State Warriors for the first time in four years. Despite losing in the semifinals to the Thunder, it was a milestone for the Rockets and their young players who had lacked meaningful NBA experience.
San Antonio Spurs as Challengers
This season, the San Antonio Spurs appear to be the team most capable of replicating last year’s Rockets' success. Houston, however, did not face Victor Wembanyama—currently the MVP and Defensive Player of the Year if the season ended today—or Stephon Castle, the reigning Rookie of the Year. These key players significantly impact the Spurs' strength.
Player Updates for Tonight's Game
- De’Aaron Fox and Luke Kornet are listed as game-time decisions.
- Rockets fans expect at least one, if not both, to play in tonight's game.
- Dylan Harper is out, disappointing given his strong recent performances.
“Even with a loss in the semifinals to the Thunder, it was a big moment for the Rockets and their young players who had not played in meaningful games during their early NBA careers.”