The Houston Rockets are witnessing the remarkable rise of Alperen Sengun, who has transitioned from being the MVP of the Turkish league to a standout young talent in the NBA. Selected as a draft-day gem with the No. 17 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Sengun has not only proven his worth but has also become a focal point of the Rockets' offense. With each passing season, his skills have sharpened, drawing significant attention from around the league.
As opposing teams prioritize stopping Sengun, they have begun to double-team him consistently, particularly as the Rockets' 3-point shooting has faltered. This strategy has forced Sengun into challenging shot attempts, despite his overall shot volume remaining steady. Nevertheless, his teammates are adjusting to the increased defensive focus on him, seeking to capitalize on the opportunities that arise from his presence on the court.
Dillon Brooks has emerged as a key beneficiary of Sengun's attention, thriving as the Rockets' most reliable shooter this season. Brooks has adapted by positioning himself effectively for open shots or driving lanes. Additionally, Amen Thompson has also gained from Sengun's gravity, becoming one of the best cutters on the team. While Sengun has shown a willingness to pass, he has recently adopted a more aggressive scoring approach, particularly against double teams.
Head coach Ime Udoka has emphasized Sengun's importance as the offensive hub, stating he provides stability during scoring droughts. Despite the Rockets' shooting percentages not reflecting their potential, they are generating open looks that they need to convert. To maintain their position among the top three teams in the Western Conference, the Rockets must leverage the attention Sengun commands as they prepare to face the Boston Celtics in their next game.
