Houston Rockets star Christian Wood vowed improvement after Wednesday’s loss in Brooklyn and largely delivered, but it still wasn’t nearly enough in Friday’s 118-102 loss (box score) at Boston.
After posting 14 points (33.3% FG) and 8 rebounds on Wednesday, Wood led the Rockets (13-35) on Friday with 19 points (50% FG) and 10 rebounds in 32 minutes. However, it wasn’t nearly enough against the host Celtics, who were led by the All-Star duo of Jayson Tatum (26 points, 9 rebounds) and Jaylen Brown (22 points, 11 rebounds).
Reserve guard Evan Fournier scored 23 for Boston on 7-of-11 shooting from 3-point range (63.6%), while starting center Robert Williams III had a well-rounded game with 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists.
As expected, the Rockets (13-35) remained without John Wall, who is out indefinitely with left knee effusion. Talented prospect Kevin Porter Jr. started at point guard but struggled against the defense of Boston’s Marcus Smart, scoring 12 points on 4-of-11 shooting (36.4%).
In the start of a back-to-back, Houston returns to action on Sunday at home versus New Orleans (21-26). For now, here’s a look at highlights and postgame reaction following Friday’s loss at Boston.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDiyFdF46MY
[lawrence-related id=47162,47111]
Silas says the team can play with a lot more purpose when they play faster and get up the floor.
— Kelly Iko (@KellyIkoNBA) April 3, 2021
Stephen Silas said Wood is OK. Will ask Wood about what happened, but could have been shaken up from the fall, rather than re-aggravating the ankle. https://t.co/WfbPAXLL2K
— Jonathan Feigen (@Jonathan_Feigen) April 3, 2021
KPJ loves the support system with the #Rockets. From the front office, coaches, and players.
— Zachary Allen (@RenzoTheDon) April 3, 2021
Christian Wood said he was not hurt, just frustrated about a missed call. Not sure how that made him limp. He smiled when he said it but also insisted he is fine.
— Jonathan Feigen (@Jonathan_Feigen) April 3, 2021