ClutchFans Game Thread: Nuggets @ Rockets 3/23/2025

Great analysis and I’d like to add that, unfortunately, I don’t believe these issues will be resolved until Ime starts assigning specific roles to each player. We need a more defined hierarchical structure rather than the current chaos-ball approach. This team desperately needs an offensive identity, clearly outlined sets like a Plan A, Plan B, and Plan C, in that order. Without these, it’s too easy for opponents to shut us down offensively, and our defense, while solid, isn’t usually enough to compensate against teams with structured systems. Even without Jokic, we’ve seen how Denver thrives by sticking to a well-defined system. I get that we’re a young team and building takes time, but I’d love to see some signs that Ime recognizes the core problem and is working toward the identity he wants to shape for our team.

 

This morning I was a little upset about the loss but then I saw Sengun got a triple double and Jalen got 30 which definitely made the loss ok. Just gotta be patient they are only in their 4th year. Next year we have to be patient as well they are going into only their 5th year. Probably should be patient through their 7th and 8th years then we can really start judging them.

 

The Rockets do have an offensive identity and they run plays, but they aren't very sophisticated. Feeding Alpi down low, Alpi at the elbow, getting Jalen the ball on the run at the top of the key or elbow, Jalen isolation, Jalen/Alpi PnR, etc etc. Other players usually either shoot/drive when they catch the ball in scoring position or they attack mismatches (which DB does quite well, for example).

Comparing their offense to the Nuggets isn't really fair since the wizard known as Jokic is involved. He is a unicorn in a class by himself that unlocks all of his teammates. They also have the benefit of being mostly veteran players who have a core that has been together several years (Jokic/Murray/MPJ/Gordon). So even when Jokic misses a few games (and they know he's coming back soon), the Nuggets can read each others minds, play tight, cohesive basketball and win sometimes.

IMO, Rockets need a legit alpha at least in their late 20s to contend, which is why there is a good chance something happens over the summer. They know they can't afford to wait for all the guys in the nursery to grow up. It's a matter of who stays and who's traded.

 

Bi+ch behavior.

 

Clearly we should be patient until the 78th year.

 

Houston missed 12 FTs in a 5-point loss.
Outscored 14-0 on the break.

FTs and fastbreak coverages are about concentration, desire, and attention to detail.

Uncontested shots: FVV 2-11, Sengun 3-10, Green 4-13
Our offense gets us reasonable looks, but winning teams convert these.

Denver: 30-52 (57.7%) on uncontested shots, led by Jamal Murray's 11-17

 

Conclusion: work harder and we need some consistent shooters!

 

This was a stupid ****ing loss, showed a lack of maturity. I hope coach had some choice words after the game.

 

He was the main reason that we lost.

 

you’re at @Bobbythegreat hate level for Fred lmao