The two main limiting factors for a struggling Houston Rockets

These are not good times for a franchise that had high hopes at the beginning of the season but is experiencing a concerning downturn. The Houston Rockets are clearly regressing in their performance, losing their identity, facing serious offensive flow issues in crucial moments, and dropping in the standings. Let's analyze the reasons.

Things were looking bright for them a few months ago, and with good reason. The Houston Rockets were set to be one of the most exciting projects in their quest for the championship this season, but VanVleet's injury significantly disrupted their plans. They managed to maintain a good overall tone, with positive news like Sheppard's good form, but the team has been declining in recent weeks. Alperen Sengun is a shadow of what he was supposed to be, the defense isn't as fierce as expected, Amen Thompson hasn't found his place yet, and there's a heavy reliance on Kevin Durant.

Adding to this is the poor shot selection and ball management in crucial moments of close games. In Clutch Time, these Houston Rockets are far from elite, with a 7-12 record and shooting percentages that fall well short of what's needed for significant achievements. Turnovers, lack of character from the young players, absence of a point guard to organize ideas... There are many possible explanations, but the truth is that Ime Udoka needs to find a solution urgently.

The Rockets in the clutch this season:

Record: 7-12
Shooting Splits: 39.5%-25.0%-73.8%
TOV per game: 1.6 (2nd worst in the NBA)
+/-: -1.7

12 of their 14 losses are in the clutch… That’s their main issue.

Until that’s fixed they’re going nowhere this postseason. pic.twitter.com/OJQZZSkdVS

— Bradeaux (@BradeauxNBA) January 12, 2026

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