Game Preview
The Houston Rockets (21-10) take on the Miami Heat (15-13) in an intriguing interconference matchup on Sunday. The Rockets, winners of four of their last five, are riding a strong start to the season and currently sit atop the Southwest Division with a 67.7% win rate. Meanwhile, the Heat have found their groove with back-to-back victories, looking to climb above .500 for the first time in weeks.
Houston's offensive firepower has been on full display, averaging nearly 114 points per game on the season. Over their last five contests, the Rockets have taken it up a notch, pouring in 120.2 points per game while shooting a blistering 48.4% from the field. Their three-point barrage has been particularly potent, hovering around 34% from deep over this recent stretch.
Defensively, the Rockets have tightened the screws, limiting opponents to just 106.7 points per game for the season. This effort has been even more impressive over their last 20 games, holding teams under 107 points while grabbing 50.6 rebounds and forcing nearly 9 steals per contest. Houston's ability to control the glass and create turnovers has fueled their success.
For the Heat, their season has been a study in contrasts. While averaging 115.4 points overall, Miami has struggled to find consistency, alternating hot and cold stretches. However, their last 10 games have seen an offensive explosion, pouring in 122.8 points per game on 46.9% shooting. The three-ball has been a weapon, with Miami knocking down 37.6% from deep during this span.
Defensively, the Heat have been solid if unspectacular, allowing 108.6 points per game for the year. But their last 10 games have seen a marked improvement, holding opponents under 107 points while forcing 15.7 turnovers. If Miami can sustain this level of defensive intensity, they could make a move in the Eastern Conference standings.
With both teams riding offensive waves and tightening up on the defensive end, Sunday's clash could come down to three-point shooting, rebounding, and turnover battles. The Rockets have been slightly better at taking care of the ball, while the Heat have shown a knack for generating extra possessions. Whichever team can impose its style of play and control the tempo may walk away with a crucial early-season victory.