The Houston Rockets faced the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday, striving for a crucial victory after a setback against the San Antonio Spurs in NBA Cup action. The Rockets mounted a comeback, clinching a 122-115 win after trailing by double digits.
Key Moments from the Rockets’ Victory Against the Bucks
The Bucks held the lead for a significant part of the game. However, Kevin Durant’s consistent scoring and key defensive plays by second-year guard Reed Sheppard sparked the Rockets’ resurgence late in the contest. With just two minutes left, Jabari Smith Jr. buried a pivotal three-pointer, allowing Houston to seize their first lead since the opening quarter. The Rockets capitalized with a blend of critical baskets and defensive stops to secure the victory.
Key Takeaways
- Reed Sheppard’s Performance: After starting his second season slowly, Sheppard is improving significantly this November. He scored double figures in nearly every game during the month, including 16 points against Milwaukee, shooting an impressive 60% from the field and recording four steals and one block. His stellar fourth quarter played a crucial role in turning defense into offense, which contributed to Houston’s comeback.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Impact: The MVP candidate from the Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo, dominated with 37 points, shooting 56%. He added nine rebounds and three assists, showcasing his ability to drive to the basket and finish strong. Despite the Rockets having several defenders to challenge him, few could effectively limit his impact, though he missed three key free throws that might have changed the game’s outcome.
- Durant’s Contribution: Rockets’ own MVP contender, Kevin Durant, contributed significantly with 31 points. His scoring was vital to keep Houston competitive throughout the game.
Current Standing and Upcoming Matches
The Rockets have experienced an inconsistent start to the season, with a record of 6-3 after the victory over the Bucks. This win was essential for avoiding a fall to .500 and positioned them favorably in the Western Conference standings. Following a two-day break, the team will face the struggling Washington Wizards, who have a dismal record of 1-9, before gearing up for more challenging matchups against teams like Portland, Orlando, Cleveland, and Denver.
