The young Houston Rockets squad shattered Denver Nuggets’ dream to win the inaugural in-season tournament. Nikola Jokic and Co. were fighting to clinch a spot in the knockout stages of the first-of-its-kind tournament. But the dominant performance by Rockets Center, Alperen Sengun, proved too much for the Nuggets to overcome. The Rockets won the game 105-86. This is the second time this season that the Denver Nuggets have fallen to the Houston Rockets.

Here are 3-key takeaways as Alperen Sengun’s blazing performance kicks his “idol” Nikola Jokic out of the in-season tournament.

1. Alperen Sengun is a future superstar

21-year-old Alperen Sengun is having a breakout year this season. He has taken a giant leap from his sophomore season and is averaging 20.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 5.5 assists for the Rockets this year. Houston might have found the next young player to build their franchise around. Sengun’s 6’11 frame and playing style are very similar to 2-time MVP Nikola Jokic, and he has shown immense potential this season.

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His basketball IQ is off the charts, and he is leading the Rockets in multiple categories. Sengun has led the Rockets to an amazing 7-3 start, which is significantly better than their 22-60 record last season. In Sengun’s last encounter with his “idol” Nikola Jokic, Sengun scored 23 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists in leading his team to victory. He topped that performance in tonight’s win, scoring 21 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists.

2. Nikola Jokic needs backup to win it all

The Joker put up another historic performance in tonight’s game. But just like his previous match-up with the Rockets, his performance was not enough to get the Nuggets a win. Denver lost to the Rockets 104-107 the last time, even though Jokic put up a historic triple-double with 36 points, 21 rebounds, and 11 assists.

Read More: Is Nikola Jokic More Efficient Than Michael Jordan? Assessing JJ Redick’s GOAT Claims With 3 Compelling Arguments

He played great in tonight’s game as well, scoring 38 points, 19 rebounds, and 8 assists. That shows the Denver Nuggets cannot win if The Joker does not have the support of his co-star Jamal Murray. Jokic and Murray proved that they are the best duo in the NBA after winning the NBA Championship last season. And Jokic needs Murray back in the line-up if they want to win back-to-back championships.

3. The Houston Rockets are a problem

The Rockets’ front office made some incredible moves this off-season to improve their roster. They added veteran guard Fred VanVleet, and talented players like Dillon Brooks, Jeff Green, and Victor Oladipo. The addition of these veteran players has unlocked the potential of Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green.

The Rockets had a talented young core last season but needed some guidance from veteran leaders. Their performance this season has been incredible, and they might make their first playoffs since 2020 this year. If the Rockets continue to develop their talent, they will be a scary team to face in the playoffs.

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