With a record of 13-38, the young Houston Rockets are still near the bottom of the NBA when it comes to records in the 2022-23 season. But relative to the start of last week, when they were on a league-worst losing streak of 13 games, there are finally signs of optimism.
After Wednesday’s 112-106 win (box score) over Oklahoma City, the Rockets have now won three of their last five games, including two in a row. One of the biggest reasons is veteran guard Eric Gordon, who tallied a game-high 25 points versus the Thunder on 8-of-17 shooting (47.1%), including 3-of-6 on 3-pointers (50.0%).
Over his last two games (both wins), the 34-year-old is averaging 24.5 points (47.1% FG), 5.0 assists, and 2.0 steals in 34.0 minutes per game. Gordon has taken on a larger role in the absence of injured starters Kevin Porter Jr. and Jalen Green, and he has taken full advantage.
At 34, Gordon isn’t in age alignment with the rest of the young and rebuilding Rockets. But with the Thursday, Feb. 9 trade deadline for the 2022-23 regular season just one week away, perhaps the strong showing in recent days can help build a market for Gordon among contenders as general manager Rafael Stone considers his options.
Gordon, who recently began playing both ends of back-to-backs, has a chance to continue his momentum and perhaps showcase his improved durability when the Rockets return to action on Friday and Saturday nights. The opener of the back-to-back is at home versus Toronto, while the second game is a rematch with the Thunder.
