Rockets Aim for Ninth Straight Win Against Struggling Heat

HOUSTON, Texas — The Houston Rockets are poised to extend their winning streak to nine games as they face off against the Miami Heat on Friday night at the Kaseya Center. Currently holding the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference with a record of 45-25, the Rockets have demonstrated their dominance in recent weeks.

The Rockets clinched their eighth consecutive victory against various opponents, regaining momentum as the NBA postseason approaches. Fresh off their impressive run, the team is eagerly looking to overcome their history of struggles against the Heat, having not defeated them since 2019.

Alperen Sengun, a standout performer for the Rockets, has been instrumental during the streak, averaging nearly 19 points along with 10.3 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game. His shooting efficiency has also increased, hitting 59% from the field and 50% from three-point range.

Despite their impressive streak, the Rockets have faced primarily lower-tier teams in the league with no postseason-bound opponents. Their upcoming challenge against the Heat presents an opportunity to assess their readiness for the playoffs, as Miami is arguably the toughest team they have encountered in weeks.

Injury updates for both teams reveal mixed news. The Rockets will welcome back dynamic guard Amen Thompson, who has been labeled probable for the game after recovering from a left ankle sprain. Thompson has averaged 14.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists this season, and his return could provide a much-needed boost.

However, the team will still be without Reed Sheppard, who is out with a fractured right thumb. His absence is a setback for the Rockets, who are looking to capitalize on their current winning momentum.

The Miami Heat, struggling with their performance, currently hold a record of 29-40 and find themselves tied at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. They are on a nine-game losing streak, which has propelled them to the tenth position in their conference.

Dru Smith and Nikola Jovic are both ruled out for the Heat, while former All-Star Andrew Wiggins is expected to play, fighting through an ankle injury. The return of Thompson will be a key storyline, considering his last encounter with Miami in December, which led to a two-game suspension for his involvement in an altercation with Heat guard Tyler Herro.

The intensity of the game is heightened by the Rockets’ aim to break their long-standing losing streak against Miami. Houston has lost their last nine encounters with the Heat, presenting a historic hurdle as they embark on the quest for their ninth consecutive victory.

The Rockets and Heat are scheduled to tip off at 7 p.m. CT. As fans gear up for the matchup, many are eager to witness how the Rockets plan to navigate this important challenge ahead of the playoffs.