It’d be interesting to watch the 2024 third and fifth-overall draft picks face each other as the Houston Rockets battle the Detroit Pistons at Thomas and Mack Center.
The House Rockets have been on fire since the NBA 2K25 Summer League exhibition started. Further, the Rockets won against the Los Angeles Lakers and Washington Wizards to go 2-for-0 in two games. Against the Wizards, Houston Rockets won with an 18-point margin (109-91) as Reed Sheppard and Cam Whitmore’s impressive performance led to this victory.
On the other hand, the Detroit Pistons are coming from a tough loss against the Philadelphia 76ers (81-94). Despite losing, their rookie led the team in performance. However, for the Piston to bounce back against the Rockets, the team needs to improve their game’s playbook and performance. Finally, this summer league match is the Pistons’ second. Therefore, it’s a better opportunity for the team to bounce back.
Despite the Pistons’ loss, can their previous performance match the Rockets?
Houston Rockets vs. Detroit Pistons Game Details
Fixture: Detroit Pistons @ Houston Rockets
Date and Time: July 15 @ 6:30 pm EST
League: NBA 2K25
Location: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, NV
Network: NBA TV
Summer League Team Review
Houston Rockets
https://gty.im/2102282242
The Rockets’ 2024 No. 3 overall pick, Reed Sheppard didn’t fall short of expectations after exploding in his debut game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Further, the 20-year-old guard got 22 points, seven assists, six defensive rebounds, five steals, and a block. Thus, we should expect the same energy against the Pistons. Offensively, Sheppard made 60% on field goals (9-of-15) and 75% from the charity stripe (3-of-4). With an aggressive offense and solid defense, the Rockets guard could be unstoppable against the Pistons
Cam Whitmore led the team with his outstanding performance against the Wizards. His combo with Sheppard makes a solid dynamic duo. The 20-year-old forward got 25 points, eight defensive rebounds, five steals, four assists and a block. Also, the Rocket’s forward made 9-of-15 field goals and 7-of-10 from the charity stripe. AJ Griffin who came for the Atlanta Hawks improved his game a bit as he got 13 points, two assists, two rebounds, and two steals with a block.
Detroit Pistons
The Pistons team struggled in their debut game, however, their 2024 fifth overall draft pick, Ron Holland II, shined his light on the franchise’s future. Also, Holland II’s debut performance against the Philadelphia 76ers was decent. Thus, the 19-year-old forward got 15 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and two blocks with a steal. Further, Holland II can impact on both sides of the court, however, the 6’ 8 forward has to improve his field goals made as he got 33% in field goals (5-15).
Second-round overall pick, Bobi Klintman seconded in top performance. Kiltntman got 13 points, five assists, and five rebounds. Also, he made 50% in field goals (5-of-10) and 42.9% in three-pointers (3-7). Tolu Smith III (F) was undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft event and could get a contract as he clinched a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds, making 54.5% of his field goal attempts.
Possible Breakout Players of the Game
Houston Rockets
Rocket fans still expect AJ Griffin to improve his game this summer league. Also, Orlando Robinson came off the bench for two matches and performed well. Against the Wizards, the 24-year-old center got a double-double score of 22 points, 15 rebounds, and two steals, making 71% on field goals (10-14).
Detroit Pistons
Dannis Jenkins is on a two-way deal with the Pistons. The guard came off the bench to score 10 points, five assists, three steals, and a block in 26 minutes. Jenkins could break out against the Rockets as he’s a good 6th player.
For More Great Content
Check out all the great content Total Apex Sports has to offer. Check us out on X @TotalApexSports and our other sites: Total Apex Sports Bets and Total Apex Fantasy Sports
