Rockets' Alperen Sengun named NBA Western Conference Player of the Week

Do the Houston Rockets have "the guy"?

It's been a talking point. Even at 15-6, some will pose that question. Do the Rockets have a player on their roster who will eventually join the ranks of the 10 best players in the NBA?

It's a difficult question. If it does have an answer, it's Alperen Sengun. He's been the most consistent offensive force that the Rockets have found throughout their rebuild.

The league is starting to catch up. Sengun is seeing his name listed among the brightest young stars in the NBA. Rival teams are specifically altering their game plan for him.

He was also just named the NBA's Western Conference Player of the Week.

Rockets' Alperen Sengun earns star distinction

It was well deserved. Between November 25th and December 1st, Sengun averaged 21.3 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 9.0 assists. That's superstar production. It's hard to avoid the fact that it's reminiscent of one of the biggest stars in the league.

Sengun has invited endless comparisons to Nikola Jokic. That's an unreasonable bar. Jokic is arguably the best offensive player in NBA history, and it's not fair to expect that kind of production from Sengun.

That said - did Sengun look like Baby Jokic this week or what? The assist number is especially encouraging. Sengun has sometimes struggled to respond quickly and effectively to defensive pressure. Lately, he's making quicker reads from double teams, and his assist numbers are rising as a result.

Is he the Rockets' franchise player?

Rockets have a keeper in Sengun

Probably. Perhaps. It's impossible to know.

Does it matter?

Amen Thompson could still develop into a lead ball-handler. In that event, his two-way impact could make him the Rockets' guy. Alternatively, this organization could still make a trade for a superstar in due time.

One thing is clear: Sengun is a keeper. If he isn't the best player on this roster in a few years, he'll be the next best. This is a player who's going to make All-Star appearances. Sengun is on track to make an All-NBA team in time.

As much as his passing has improved, his defensive leap has meant more to the Rockets in 2024-25. That was a massive question mark for the team for his first three seasons. Sengun has responded. He's done a terrific job as a roamer in Udoka's scheme. Suddenly, his stardom feels sustainable.

Expect more awards for him in the near future.