Houston entered their match Sunday facing inter-division rival San Antonio leading the Southwest, but by night’s end a season high 24- turnovers led to a loss and them dropping behind Memphis again into second and fourth in the West.
San Antonio began the game featuring their 20th different starting line-up in 30 games. For most teams this lack of consistency would result in an automatic loss, but these are the World Champions and one should never discount their ability to rise to an occasion.
While the Rockets showcased great moments specifically on contributions from their bench ultimately turnovers, fouls and a lack of practice time together resulted in the loss.
THE STARTERS
We have to remember this is only Smith’s second game and he’s yet to be able to practice with the team. Versus a strong team like San Antonio it was more obvious that he needs time with his new teammates to understand their sets. Unfortunately he won’t have that opportunity yet as the team plays a back to back versus Washington tomorrow.
Of note, while he was lost a few times on the defensive end it’s obvious his size will be an asset moving forward. In addition his ability to drive the paint and send out razor sharp passes to waiting teammates on the perimeter is going to pay huge dividends when the team has more time together to incorporate that talent.
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We have to remember this is only Smith’s second game and he’s yet to be able to practice with the team. Versus a strong team like San Antonio it was more obvious that he needs time with his new teammates to understand their sets. Unfortunately he won’t have that opportunity yet as the team plays a back to back versus Washington tomorrow.
Of note, while he was lost a few times on the defensive end it’s obvious his size will be an asset moving forward. In addition his ability to drive the paint and send out razor sharp passes to waiting teammates on the perimeter is going to pay huge dividends when the team has more time together to incorporate that talent.