What is the current form of the Houston Rockets?

The Rockets recently won against the Denver Nuggets after losing their first two road games and are looking to extend their success.

How are the Sacramento Kings performing this season?

The Kings are struggling, currently on a five-game losing streak and at the bottom of the Western Conference standings.

Who are the key players for the Houston Rockets against the Kings?

Expected starters for the Rockets include Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun, Josh Okogie, and Amen Thompson.

Home / Sports / Rockets Aim to Conquer Kings in Back-to-Back Battle

Rockets Aim to Conquer Kings in Back-to-Back Battle

22 Dec, 2025

•

Summary

Rockets seek victory after splitting road trip's first two games.
Sophomore guard Reed Shepherd scored 28 points in Saturday's win.
Kings are on a five-game losing streak, at the bottom of the West.

Rockets Aim to Conquer Kings in Back-to-Back Battle

The Houston Rockets are continuing their road trip by facing the Sacramento Kings, marking one of their most difficult matchups of the season. After losing the initial two games of their six-game journey, the Rockets secured a 115-101 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Saturday. They now aim to defeat the Kings, who are currently at the bottom of the Western Conference standings. This game is the second of four meetings between these conference rivals this season.

The Rockets have demonstrated strong performance at home but have shown inconsistency in their road games. A key offensive contributor recently has been sophomore guard Reed Shepherd, who scored a season-high 28 points off the bench against the Nuggets. Entering this game, Houston holds a narrow lead over the sixth-place Minnesota Timberwolves and is trailing the fourth-place LA Lakers.