Is Alperen Sengun playing tonight against the Warriors? Latest on Rockets star's availability for Emirates NBA Cup Quarterfinal (Dec. 11)
Alperen Sengun is in danger of missing his first game of the season on Wednesday when the Houston Rockets host the Golden State Warriors in the quarterfinals of the Emirates NBA Cup. The Turkish star is on his team’s injury report because of a sore left knee.
Sengun’s struggles in his last game might have something to do with his injury. The emerging star had 11 points on 4-for-9 shooting against the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, including 0-for-2 from deep. He added 10 rebounds and six assists to his totals. Two nights later, the Rockets listed him with a questionable tag ahead of the Warriors game.
The Rockets’ two-day rest might be enough for Alperen Sengun’s left knee
The Houston Rockets had two days off before facing the Golden State Warriors. Per multiple reports, Alperen Sengun was a limited participant in their practices to give his knee additional rest. Houston’s training staff will closely monitor him after the morning shootaround and Sengun’s status will be determined hours before the game.
Although the break is brief, it might be enough for Sengun to be ready to play. Rockets fans will be crossing their fingers that he gets cleared to suit up for the team.
Alperen Sengun played well against the Golden State Warriors in their last game
Alperen Sengun will be at the forefront of the Golden State Warriors’ defensive strategy. Though he is not an explosive or athletic scorer, he impacts the game in various ways. There is a reason why he is called “Baby Jokic” by some analysts, after all.
In his last game against the Warriors on Thursday, Sengun had 16 points with 12 of them coming in the fourth quarter. He nearly dragged his team to victory with his inside forays and playmaking. Golden State will certainly look to limit his impact in the knockout phase of the Emirates NBA Cup.
Draymond Green waits for Alperen Sengun
Unlike the last Rockets-Warriors meeting, Draymond Green will be available on Wednesday. Green, who dealt with calf issues, has been upgraded to available by the Dubs. If Sengun is cleared to play, the former Defensive Player of the Year will shadow the Rockets big man.
Rockets coach Ime Udoka utilizes Sengun as the fulcrum of his offense. It will be interesting to see how Green attempts to slow down the bruising and versatile center.