The Houston Rockets’ recent defeat to the Sacramento Kings has brought an old issue back into focus.
When the Rockets traded for Kevin Durant, the move was seen as a clear signal they planned to compete for a title this season.
The team added him to a squad that had won 52 games the year before, finishing second in the Western Conference standings.
But their first-round playoff loss to the Golden State Warriors exposed their lack of experience, particularly in late-game situations.
Durant’s arrival should have addressed that. His reputation as one of the NBA’s most clutch players suggested he would fill that gap. But this season, it is still very much an issue.
Houston Rockets have struggled in overtime, holding a 1-4 record
It has become a recurring theme for the Houston Rockets that they find themselves in overtime games and fail to pull out wins. So far, they have gone to overtime five times this season and won only once.
Since beating the Orlando Magic in one of those games, every other overtime appearance has ended in defeat. That stretch began with an opening night loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Rockets have also lost close ones against the Denver Nuggets, New Orleans Pelicans, and most recently Sacramento Kings – three teams that are not known for being better at closing out games.
The game against the Kings was especially tough. The Rockets were up by double digits going into the fourth quarter but could not hang on. Russell Westbrook tied it late, and then Houston struggled again during the extra period.
Houston Rockets’ need for a late-game closer beyond Kevin Durant
The Rockets’ overtime record shows they are struggling to finish games when it matters most.
With five overtime games – more than any other NBA team – it is evident they struggle to secure a victory when facing adversity.
So far this season, no one else on the team has stepped up in those moments. Durant is often double-teamed late in games, and without another consistent option, the offence tends to stall.
The Rockets would be better off seeking an additional closer to alleviate the pressure on Durant, as Alperen Sengun has not yet proven capable of filling that role.
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