Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka joins The Matt Thomas Show to preview the first of two consecutive games against the Suns in Phoenix.
The last time these Western Conference teams met, the Rockets hosted the Suns and beat them 114-110. However, tonight's rematch could be the first time this season the Rockets are without guard Jalen Green in the lineup, who is currently listed as questionable with illness. "Health is premium for our guys," Udoka said. Nevertheless, Udoka is confident in rookie Amen Thompson's ability to step up if Green is out.
Despite winning over the Suns on February 23, the Rockets struggled to guard center Bol Bol, who scored 25 points, and even faced difficulty with Chet Holmgren in their last two games against the Oklahoma City Thunder. These long centers "are playing a lot on the perimeter," but "the game has changed and you really have to adapt with it."
The Rockets' last two games were against the Thunder, and the next two are against the Suns. However, Udoka is not opposed to playing opponents back-to-back. "There are some benefits to it," and it gives "a little bit of a playoff atmosphere."
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