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The Houston Rockets have opened the season with three consecutive victories and will aim to extend their winning streak when they host the Atlanta Hawks to begin the week. The two teams met just days ago, with the Rockets controlling most of the game before a late surge by the Hawks made things interesting. Houston managed to hold on for the win.
In that previous matchup, the Rockets were missing two key guards: Marcus Smart and Fred VanVleet. Smart, who was sidelined with a forearm injury, appears on the injury report for the rematch and is listed as questionable. His availability will be a key storyline, as his defensive tenacity and perimeter shooting would be valuable assets for Houston.
Throughout his career, Smart has proven capable of altering the course of a game with his defense, which is why the Rockets pursued him in the offseason. Having both Smart and VanVleet back in the rotation would make Houston a formidable opponent. Kevin Durant echoed that sentiment after the team's win over the Dallas Mavericks, highlighting the impact of having reliable shooters in the backcourt. "Last year we started in our backcourt, Twin (Amen Thompson) and Josh Okogie," Durant said. "And a lot of the time those guys are being left at the 3-point line. And their men are helping guard guys in the paint. So when we've got Fred and Marcus Smart out there who can keep the defense honest at the 3-point line and then Twin just roaming around just doing everything. Grabbing offensive rebounds, making assists, dunks, floaters, everything."
Key Analysis
The potential return of Smart and VanVleet gives the Rockets a significant boost on both ends of the floor. Smart's defensive prowess and ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc would add another layer to Houston's attack, while VanVleet's presence ensures the offense runs smoothly. Their combined availability could be the difference-maker as the Rockets seek to remain unbeaten at home against the Hawks.
Originally reported by yahoo.