The Rockets continue to take on step forward and two steps back, this time due to Chris Paul sustaining a hamstring injury. Houston missing the postseason seems unlikely — especially with James Harden playing MVP ball — but it’s no longer outside the realm of possibility.
One advantage would be Houston adding another serviceable contributor to the second unit, which has been a weakness this season. Nickeil Alexander-Walker continues to step up in his sophomore season, with the Rockets’ style fitting his game rather perfectly.
At 6-foot-5, Alexander-Walker boasts long arms which contribute to his defensive versatility on the perimeter. He’s also an excellent spot-up shooter who can shoulder the playmaking load on occasion, attacking closeouts, getting into the teeth of the defense, and making smart decisions.