Alperen Sengun, the breakthrough center for the Rockets, had to be wheeled off the court after seeming to have a major leg injury against the Kings on Sunday. But according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, an MRI on Monday revealed a bone bruise and sprain in the ankle, but nothing that will be required. surgery.
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Sources indicate that Sengun, 21, has not been definitively ruled out for the final month of the season. However, significant healing would be necessary before he could receive clearance to return to play before the regular season concludes on April 14.
He has been one of the league’s breakout players this season and established himself as a cornerstone for the franchise.
Sengun scored a career-high 45 points against the San Antonio Spurs last week, becoming the fifth player all-time with 45 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 steals in a game.
Sengun’s Impact On Team Dynamics And Playoff Aspirations
Sengün’s absence poses a significant challenge for the Rockets, particularly considering his recent stellar performances that contributed significantly to the team’s resurgence. His versatility as a scorer and playmaker has been instrumental in the Rockets’ recent successes, culminating in a notable surge in their performance.
The Rockets now have the difficult challenge of coming together quickly to make up for Sengün’s absence. The team’s offensive methods have relied heavily on his special skill set and contributions, so much so that his absence has required a strategic reevaluation.
Praise From Coaches and Peers Highlights: Sengün’s Impact
Opposing teams have routinely double- and triple-teamed Sengün, deploying zones and swarming the lane when he initiates his movements. His pivotal role as the centerpiece of the Rockets’ offensive strategy earned him the title of Western Conference Player of the Week in January. However, his incredible performance against Wembanyama and the Spurs made a definitive statement.
Coach Chauncey Billups of the Trail Blazers described him as “fearless.” He assaulted Wembanyama. He scored heavily that evening. He never lets you settle in with his shot fakes, ball fakes, or speed changes in that painted area.
When you discuss physicality, you’re discussing defense. Most of his physicality is on the offensive end. He’ll bring it to you every single time. That’s one thing that’s a little different. And he’s a young guy. I love his physicality on the offensive end. He’s bringing the fight to you.”
Sengün had become a candidate to be an All-Star and was in the Most Improved Player race, going from averaging 14.8 and nine rebounds last season to 21.1 and 9.3 rebounds this season, keying the Rockets’ rise from 22 wins to a 29-35 record with 18 games left.
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“He’s starting to show—which you saw glimpses of early in the year and even last year—his growth. It’s not going to surprise me at all, because he’s a really good basketball player.”