Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun is enjoying the best season of his career. The fourth-year center is averaging just over 19 points and 10 rebounds per game, and the Rockets are in second place in the Western Conference standings as January rolls into its second half.

However, other players not known for their defensive prowess are also making improvements, especially Alperen Sengun. Sengun had concerns earlier in his career about defense, but those are quickly fading away.

The Houston Rockets have soared into contending status, and their ascent has been quite exciting to watch, as they have assembled one of the brightest young cores in the association. The crown jewel of the Rockets team remains star big man Alperen Sengun,