2024 Houston Rockets playoffs picture following loss vs Dallas Mavericks (March 31): Updated standings, schedule and more

Before their Sunday matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, the Houston Rockets had been on a hot streak in the NBA. However, they suffered a crushing 125-107 defeat, unable to contain Luka Doncic who scored 32 points in the first half and seemed to effortlessly navigate their defense. Despite their efforts to climb out of their 21-point halftime deficit, the Rockets were unable to turn the game around in the second half.

The highlight of the game was the Mavericks’ impressive performance from beyond the three-point line, with Doncic leading the way as they made 24 out of 47 attempts. Kyrie Irving, P.J. Washington, and Tim Hardaway Jr. also contributed to the team’s dominant shooting display, which resulted in an early defeat for the Rockets.

Despite their victory against the San Antonio Spurs, the Golden State Warriors’ 117-113 win on Sunday has significantly impacted the Houston Rockets’ chances of making it to the pre-playoff play-in tournament. The Rockets (38-36) now trail the Warriors (40-34) by two games for the 10th spot in the Western Conference, which grants the final opportunity to participate in the pre-playoff format.

The Houston Rockets’ Play-In Tournament Prospects Remain Promising

Despite their recent loss to Dallas, the Houston Rockets still have a chance to qualify for the play-in tournament. However, they will need to significantly improve their performance. While it won’t be an easy task, it is certainly not impossible. Among the eight teams they have left to face in their remaining schedule, only the Portland Trail Blazers and Utah Jazz have a record below. 500.

The Rockets will first head to Minneapolis on Tuesday, followed by a home game against the Golden State Warriors two nights later. This highly anticipated matchup is considered the most crucial game of the season for the Rockets, as a defeat would greatly diminish their chances of catching up to the visiting team.

The Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Orlando Magic, and LA Clippers are also waiting to face off against Houston. Due to the absence of Alperen Sengun, the Rockets are expected to be the underdogs in these matchups. While Ime Udoka’s team has not yet been eliminated from the play-in tournament, they must secure consecutive victories to prevent an early offseason.

Jalen Green Must Stay Consistent Every Game

Despite his 12-point performance against the Mavericks at home on Sunday, Jalen Green has been averaging 33.8 points in his last 8 games. In order to secure a spot in the play-in tournament, he will need to avoid another off night.

Ime Udoka will undoubtedly make changes when facing teams that defend Green similarly to the Mavericks. In their match-up, Dallas forced Green to work tirelessly for each shot and employed a physical style of play against him. The presence of Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively, and the Mavericks’ rim protectors also restricted Green’s usual effectiveness near the basket.

Without Sengun, it appears that the Houston Rockets’ success will heavily rely on Jalen Green’s performance. He cannot afford to have another subpar shooting night if his team wants to secure a win.