Rockets Struggle Despite Win Over Shorthanded Suns

The Houston Rockets have faced struggles leading up to the All-Star break, notably with a recent defeat to the Golden State Warriors and consistent issues with shooting and turnovers. Despite a recent victory over a shorthanded Phoenix Suns team, where Tari Eason and Jalen Green led the team to a 119-111 win, the Rockets' poor free throw percentage and shooting performance remain critical areas for improvement. Injuries to key players like Fred VanVleet and Jabari Smith Jr. have contributed to their defensive slippage, dropping them in the league's defensive ratings. The team hopes to regain strength with returning players and improved shooting post-All-Star break to secure a playoff spot. However, their current position in the standings is precarious, and they need to address these weaknesses to avoid falling into the play-in tournament scenarios. The Rockets are aware of these challenges and are focused on leveraging their defensive capabilities for a successful second half of the season.