Rockets

In a dramatic turn of events, the Houston Rockets’ valiant late-season push for a postseason berth came to a heartbreaking end on Sunday. Despite holding a commanding 22-point lead against the Dallas Mavericks, the Rockets were unable to withstand the onslaught of Kyrie Irving’s 48-point masterpiece, leaving their playoff dreams in tatters. The Rockets’ resilience throughout the season was nothing short of remarkable. After a dismal 27-35 start that left them on the fringes of the Western Conference playoff race, the young upstarts embarked on an improbable 11-game winning streak, rekindling their postseason aspirations.

In a move that caught many by surprise, the Houston Rockets shook up their starting lineup for their Monday night clash against the Portland Trail Blazers. With rising star Jabari Smith serving a one-game suspension, the Rockets turned to an unlikely hero – Jock Landale. The 27-year-old Australian big man, who has primarily served as a backup center this season, was thrust into the spotlight, tasked with filling the considerable void left by Smith’s absence.