Much has been discussed in recent weeks regarding the potential of the young Houston Rockets making an offseason push to reunite with former star James Harden in 2023 free agency.
If they’d like to do so, one way to make a positive impression could be if Houston’s young prospects like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun can compete Monday with a veteran-laden 76ers team led by the likes of Harden and perennial MVP finalist Joel Embiid.
The Rockets have lost their last two games by two points apiece, each on a heartbreaking play with 0.3 seconds left. In the aftermath of trading veteran guard Eric Gordon, Friday’s game in Miami (a 97-95 final) was one of their strongest defensive efforts. Houston’s young squad used its considerable length and athleticism to fly around defensively in a switch-heavy scheme.
Three nights later, as their three-game road trip entering the All-Star break continues, can they replicate that effort in Philadelphia? They defeated the Sixers in December’s meeting at Houston.
When and How to Watch
- Date: Monday, Feb. 11
- Time: 6 p.m. Central
- TV Channel: AT&T SportsNet Southwest, NBA League Pass
- Live Stream: fuboTV (watch for free in Houston markets)
Probable starting lineups
Houston Rockets (13-43)
- Guard: Jae’Sean Tate
- Guard: Jalen Green
- Forward: KJ Martin
- Forward: Jabari Smith Jr.
- Center: Alperen Sengun
Philadelphia 76ers (36-19)
- Guard: James Harden
- Guard: De’Anthony Melton
- Forward: Tobias Harris
- Forward: PJ Tucker
- Center: Joel Embiid
Projected lineups are based on each team’s prior game
Injury reports
Houston’s injury report lists Kevin Porter Jr. as out with a left foot contusion, which has cost him one month and counting of game action. Philadelphia is listing Joel Embiid as questionable with left foot soreness, though he played through the same designation Saturday. Shake Milton is probable with left eye soreness.
