Sun Feb 09 19:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Rockets Suffer Setback Against Knicks, Missing Key Starters
**NEW YORK, NY** – The Houston Rockets suffered a disappointing loss to the New York Knicks on Monday night, hampered by the absence of three key starters: Fred VanVleet, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Sengun. While the young team showed resilience, their depleted roster ultimately proved insufficient against the Knicks.
Despite a triple-double performance from Amen Thompson (25 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists), who stepped up admirably in VanVleet’s absence, the Rockets struggled, particularly in the fourth quarter where they conceded 46 points. Jalen Green contributed 21 points but his shooting efficiency was hampered.
Coach Ime Udoka criticized the team’s fourth-quarter defensive effort, noting the challenges of playing a smaller lineup against a team with a dominant center. The Rockets’ defensive struggles have been amplified by Smith Jr.’s absence, with their defensive rating plummeting to 21st in the NBA over the last 15 games. Sengun’s absence further compounded the issue, as his playmaking abilities are crucial to the team’s offense.
The Rockets remain optimistic, however. Sengun is listed as day-to-day, and the return of Smith Jr. and VanVleet is expected to bolster the team’s performance and restore their defensive identity. The team believes that once their key players return, they will regain their winning form. Thompson’s exceptional performance showcased his growing potential and ability to lead the team.
First Piper 