Month: February 2020

Rockets Feast on Grizzlies, 140-112, Win 5th Straight

Signs of ’95.    RoBlock Covington.    Skating Down Rivers.

“Perfection is not just about control. It’s also about letting go. Surprise yourself so you can surprise the audience. Transcendence! Very few have it in them,” Thomas Leroy says in the 2010 film Black Swan. And on Wednesday night, the Rockets flirted with perfection, torching the Grizzlies 140-112, for their fifth consecutive win. James Harden and Russell Westbrook combined to score 63 points on 24-for-40 shooting to lead Houston. The best backcourt in the league continues to dominate, as the Beard and Brodie are both in a groove on the court. Over this winning streak, it’s the first time all campaign both Harden and Westbrook have simultaneously played well. For the majority of the season, it’s been the Beard or Brodie. But that’s slowly starting to change. Wednesday marked the first time Harden and Russ scored 30 points each in back-to-back games. It’s the seventh game this season where the Beard and Brodie both hit the 30-point mark. And the first time in franchise history a Rockets duo have each scored 30 points in consecutive games since Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, back in 1995… the last year Houston won a championship. During the Rockets five-game winning streak, Harden is averaging 35.2 points, paired with an ultra-efficient 51.5% shot accuracy. The Beard’s topped the 30 point-mark in three straight games (which is expected), but he’s done it as his most efficient rate of the season. Harden’s shot 56% from the field in three consecutive games, making him the first Houston player to score 30 while shooting at least 56% in three straight contests since Hakeem Olajuwon, back in 1994-1995… the last time the Rockets tasted glory.

It hasn’t necessarily been easy, Houston’s current rise. The bold move to trade an All-Star caliber center, and go all-in on small-ball was a risk, that many questioned at the outset. Clint Caplea was drafted, developed, and grew into a player who has the potential to be an All-Star in the near future. He was loved by fans, seeing him go wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. Even if you were a believer in small-ball before Houston became the Pocket Rockets, a sample size large enough hadn’t been displayed for fans to witness. The rest of the league laughed while the NBA’s black swan made the boldest move of the season, one that could eventually have title repercussions. Now, that laughter’s been reduced to quiet, hesitant chuckles, as no one in the league can figure out how to stop these Pocket Rockets. “It won’t work in the playoffs,” members of the national media proclaim. Well, they’re saying this with less confidence with each passing day. 

Since joining the Rockets, Robert Covington is averaging 2.3 blocks per game, more than Clint Capela (1.8) averaged as Houston’s center all season, before the squad made the game-changing move to micro-ball. Once again, Daryl Morey should be in the running for Executive of the Year. Like it or not, believe it or not, the trade for RoCo saved Houston’s season… and potentially more. The versatility and intensity Covington, along with P.J. Tucker, brings on defense is a nightmare for opponents. RoCo and P.J.’s basketball IQ on the defensive end is a marvel. If the Beard and Brodie are the superheroes on offense, Tucker and Covington are equally heroic on the defensive end. You just won’t hear about it with the frequency level of talk on Harden and Russ’ greatness. If an NBA Hustle Hall-of-Fame existed, P.J. and RoCo would be first-ballot Hall-of-Famers.

Amidst their dismantling of Memphis, the Rockets had more than just Hall-of-Fame help on the court. Austin Rivers had one of his best games of the year. Rivers scored 23 points on 9-for-12 shooting, including 4-for-7 from distance. The son of Doc’s isolation play was sensation. Rivers put several Memphis players on skates, and they might also need future medical attention. Along with the now vanished Eric Gordon (he’ll be back), Austin is the lone Rocket, other than Harden and Westbrook, who can create his own shot off isolation. Rivers is also a defensive beast who’s efforts on that end go almost entirely overlooked outside of Houston’s locker room. Houston needs Eric Gordon back to win a title, but for now, Austin Rivers will get many of EG’s minutes.

Houston’s winning streak, along with the move to throw in all the cards on micro-ball, has surprised the NBA. It’s unconventional. Ditching size in a league where every team seems to have some dimension of height. But these Rockets don’t need size. Houston’s 9-2 now in the “small-ball” era, including 6-1 against playoff teams. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, the league’s black swan, the Houston Rockets, are doing what very few teams in history ever did… transcending the game.

Rockets Host Desperate Grizzlies Before Heading East

Nice to Meet Ja.    Continuing Chameleons.    Ready to Grind.

This season’s eventual Rookie of the Year, Ja Morant, makes his final visit to Houston this season as the Rockets host the Grizzlies on Wednesday night. Memphis is holding on to the eighth and final playoff spot out West. Lately, their grip on a playoff berth has been slipping. The Grizzlies come in to Houston on a three-game slide, and the Rockets are prepped to extend Memphis’ woes to a fourth game. Houston is looking for their fifth consecutive victory before heading East on a short two-game road trip. For the first time, Ja Morant will face a player he was oft compared to and idolized growing up, Russell Westbrook. Brodie missed the Rockets first two matchups against the Grizz, but expect Russ to deal the rook a few lessons in basketball mastery. Harden and Westbrook have been in sync, and it all seemed to start with the trade.

Robert Covington has been excellent, and his value on this team is truly higher than Clint Capela’s. The other new Rockets, Jeff Green and DeMarre Carroll have done well in their respective bench roles, especially Green, who has shown promising signs in a small sample size. All three players, especially RoCo, have blended in with Houston’s style like chameleons. It’s hard to notice they’re new to the squad. Their initiation into Houston Rockets basketball has been seamless. If Houston can burst out the gate from the tip and get big lead, these new guys can see more action.

Eric Gordon won’t play Wednesday, as he’s still nursing a bruised right knee. Yesterday, EG was expected to be questionable for tonight, but today the Rockets decided against that, as there’s no need to rush Splash Gordon back. They need EG at full strength when the playoffs begin. Memphis will also be missing some pieces. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Brandon Clarke are both out for the Grizzlies tonight with injuries. Nonetheless Memphis still has the probable Rookie of the Year, in Morant, and the Grizzlies are desperately trying to end their three-game slide. Morant will be hyped to play Russ for the first time, but expect Westbrook to take the rookie to school. “It was nice to meet Ja,” Brodie might say after the game.

Tonight’s game won’t be easy for Houston. Jonas Valanciunas has caused the Rockets problems in the past. This is the first time the Rockets have faced Valanciunas in the small-ball era. JoVa’s been the rare big who’s been a Rocket-killer (since his days in Toronto) regardless of Houston’s lineup on the floor. Dillon Brooks has played well against the Rockets in the teams’ first two meetings. Expect Morant, Brooks, and Valancinas to be the biggest problems Houston has to deal with tonight. Look for the Rockets to win a close game, but this one won’t be as smooth as the last few games for Houston. Memphis is fighting for the final playoff spot. The Rockets need to be ready to grind, and help out on Jonas Valanciunas, who is probably licking his chomps looking at Houston’s small-ball lineup, which will be truly tested against one of the league’s most uniquely skilled big-men. All the Rockets need to do is maintain their focus and intensity. Houston boasts more talent than the Grizz. As long as Harden and Westbrook continue to push the pace and create driving lanes, the bears will find themselves lost in space, created by this season’s eventual team of the year, the Houston Rockets. Oh yea, and ESPN switched their programming schedule a few weeks ago to make sure this matchup was on national TV. Who knows… tonight could be the game of the year.

 

Toyota Center:  Houston, Texas

 

Jersey Colors:

Memphis Grizzlies (28-29):  Turquoise

Houston Rockets (37-20):  Red

 

TV:  7 PM CT – ESPN, AT&T Sportsnet SW

Rockets Coast Past Knicks, 123-112, Win Fourth Straight

Open Highway.    Splash of Trouble.    Ready Reserves.

Houston continued in the direction of owning the Knicks, beating New York 123-112 on Monday night. The victory gives the Rockets their 8th straight over the Knicks, and wins in 26 of their last 28 matchups with New York. James Harden, Russell Westbrook and P.J. Tucker, returned from Kobe’s memorial service in Los Angeles about an hour prior to tip-off. Westbrook was a late scratch with a sore thumb, but Harden still managed to lead the Rockets with 37 points, in a game the squad controlled from start to finish. Houston’s 25-point lead was trimmed to 11 points, but that’s the closest New York would get after the Rockets blasted off for 72 points in the first half. This game was nowhere near as close as the final score indicates. The Toyota Center court was an open highway for Houston, with lanes to the basket wide open all night for the Rockets. 

Eric Gordon got the starting nod in place of Russ. EG finished with 16 points, but left the game with an apparent knee/shin injury and didn’t return. Splash Gordon has suffered the most injuries this season for Houston, and it hasn’t been close. The Rockets need EG healthy for the playoffs to get the most firepower out of their small-ball style. Houston isn’t going all the way without Splash Gordon. EG is too important on both ends of the floor. No timetable or severity of his injury has been revealed at this point. Against the lowly-Knicks, the Rockets had plenty of players step up, eager to prove they deserve more playing time.

Ben McLemore continues to be on fire from distance. On Monday, he finished with 17 points on 6-for-11 shooting to lead the bench. Since the All-Star break, Benny Mac is 11-for-17 from beyond the arc. His ability to catch and shoot, without needing a dribble to gather his shooting motion, allows McLemore to be the perfect fit in a Rockets offense that rewards the quickest catch-and-release shooters. Austin Rivers chipped in with 14 points, as AR’s been sensationally consistent all season. And Robert Covington continues to be a defensive force. RoCo scored 11 points, and had another 4-block night. Covington’s length and switching ability on defense gives Houston’s opponent nightly nightmares. The other two newest Rockets, Jeff Green and DeMarre Carroll, continue to work their way into Houston’s offense. Green went 3-for-3 from the field for 9 points. Carroll had 7 points and 4 boards in 14 minutes of action.

The Rockets have now won four consecutive games, and lie only two games beyond Denver for the second spot out West. Houston’s a mere one game behind the Clippers for the third seed. If Harden and company and continue to approach these final 25 games of the regular season with an aggressive mentality, there’s no reason the Rockets shouldn’t get the second seed in the West. The Lakers still sit comfortably eight games ahead, and will likely finish first. The Clippers have a chance of falling to fourth if the Nuggets can claim the third spot and Houston moves up to second, as I predict. That would be allow the Rockets to avoid playing the Lakers and Clippers in the playoffs. The first seed isn’t as important as avoiding the treacherous task of marching through both teams from Los Angeles in the playoffs. Houston doesn’t have complete control over where the Clippers will fall in the West, the Rockets just need to keep playing their best ball, and focus on themselves.

Up next, Ja Morant and Memphis comes to town on Wednesday night. The Grizzlies are fighting to hold onto the final playoff spot in the West. Houston’s split the season series so far with Memphis, and despite their losing record, the Rockets haven’t exactly owned the Grizz like they have the Knicks. Wednesday’s game will be tougher, but expect the return of Russ to allow Houston to keep rolling in the right direction.

Rockets Host Knicks in First Home Game in Weeks

Finally Fresh.    Last on the List.    Keeping Pace.

It’s Christmas in February for the Rockets as the New York Knicks come to town on Monday night. Houston hasn’t played a home game in 13 days due to the All-Star break. The squad returns home looking to take advantage of one of the NBA’s worst teams, one the Rockets have feasted on over the past decade-plus. Houston has won 26 of the 28 past matchups with New York, and this season should provide similar results for the Rockets. The Knicks are near the bottom of the standings, an all-too-familiar place for New Yorkers. Houston should have no problem dispatching the NBA’s worst team over the past decade.

For the first time all season, the Rockets have no injuries on their injury report. The squad is fresh, and against a bad Knicks team, garbage time could be looming if the Rockets continue to keep their foot on the gas. New York is the only team Houston hasn’t played yet this season, but that changes starting Monday as the Rockets play the Knicks twice in their next four games. The Knicks’ Elfrid Payton is questionable. New York’s starting point guard has put up productive numbers, as has Julius Randle, someone who could give Houston trouble inside if the Rockets are lazy. Other than that, the Knicks are one of the worst teams for a reason. There’s no reason New York should come into Houston and get a victory at Toyota Center. With Russ’ contagious, frenetic energy, it’s hard to see the Rockets losing to this Knicks team at this point in the season. Although, James Harden, Russell Westbrook, and P.J. Tucker attended the Kobe Bryant memorial service in Los Angeles today. They’ll take a flight back to Houston to be ready before tip. Hopefully, a day of traveling won’t throw the Rockets most valuable big three out of sync.

Houston needs to keep pace with the Nuggets and Clippers, the two teams ahead of them for the second and third seeds out West. The Lakers have a sizable lead on the top seed, with an eight-game edge over the Rockets for first at the moment. However, the second spot is more than attainable for the Houston. With 26 games remaining, the Rockets have plenty of time to finish strong down the stretch and pass Denver and the Clips in the standings for that second spot. In a perfect world, entering the playoffs, Denver falls to third, and the Clippers to fourth. The way L.A.’s less-popular team has been playing, that scenario is very possible. This would result in a Lakers-Clippers second round matchup. Meaning Houston only has to play one of the L.A. behemoths in the playoffs. And for the Rockets… that would feel like Christmas.

 

Toyota Center:  Houston Texas

 

Jersey Colors:

New York Knicks (17-39):  Blue

Houston Rockets (36-20):  Red

 

TV:  7 PM CT – AT&T Sportsnet SW

Rockets Blast Their Own Tune, Silence Jazz, 120-110

Best Duo.    Covingblock.    Taking the Challenge.

“We know that we’re the only team that’s in our way, and every night we’ve got to take the challenge of being the best team in the league,” Russell Westbrook claimed after Houston’s impressive 120-110 victory in Utah on Saturday night. And right now, after a dominating performance over the Jazz, the Rockets are playing like one of the league’s best teams. James Harden and Russell Westbrook combined to score 72 points, further cementing their status as the best backcourt in the NBA. Brodie and the Beard’s collaborated for a 55% shooting night from the floor, including 53% from deep. Harden is returning to MVP-form, finishing with 38 points, including 6-for-11 from downtown. And Utah dared Russ to shoot the midrange, and Westbrook didn’t back down. Brodie finished with 34 points on 14-for-26 shooting, including a lethal dose of midrange jumpers that kept the Jazz at bay. When Houston’s superstar duo is playing at this level, the Rockets are nearly impossible to beat. Donovan Mitchell led the way for Utah with 31 points, but every other Jazz player was held in check. Houston trailed 66-62 at halftime, but the Rockets came out surging in the third quarter, doubling-up Utah 38-19 in the frame, en route to a surprisingly comfortable 100-85 lead entering the final quarter. Harden and Russ ensured no comebacks would take place on their watch, as Houston earned their third straight victory. The win gives the Rockets the tiebreaker over the Jazz, and gives Houston possession of fourth place currently out West.

Although Robert Covington struggled from the field on Saturday, shooting a dismal 3-for-14, he made his presence felt on the defensive end once again. RoCo grabbed 12 rebounds, and also finished with 3 blocks, more than Utah’s entire team. His defense on Jazz center Rudy Gobert was especially significant in Houston’s stellar road win. RoCo’s length and versatility on defense has paid dividends for the Rockets since this arrival. Against a Jazz team with the size advantage in the post, Houston took Gobert out of his game, something the Rockets have been able to do to opponents’ big men consistently in the small-ball era.

The Rockets are now 8-2 in the micro-ball era, with one of those losses coming without Russell Westbrook. The other defeat came at the buzzer to these same Jazz on a tough, improbable shot from deep by Bojan Bogdanovic. In other words, when the Rockets are at full strength, they’ve basically been unstoppable. Russ, Harden, and co. will take any challenge thrown their way. And for the first time all season, no injuries were on Houston’s injury report Sunday. With 25 games remaining, the Rockets need to get in the best position possible for the playoffs. Houston is now only two games within catching Denver for the second spot, and one game behind the Clippers for the third seed. The Lakers still have a firm grasp on the top seed, with an eight-game advantage over Houston for first in the West. But, as history’s shown. Seeding doesn’t always matter. The Rockets are playing some of their best ball of the season. They’ve got the Knicks coming to town next, which is a gift to any team. As long as Houston doesn’t overlook New York, the Rockets won’t get in their own way, and should have no trouble adding another win… further instilling their claim in the debate over who’s the best team in the NBA.

Houston Heads to Utah, Hopes to Tune-Out Jazz in Crucial Matchup

It’s Here.    Sounds from the Abyss.    Battle for Four.

“Language is the foundation of civilization, it is the glue that holds the people together, it is the first weapon drawn in a conflict.” A quote from the film Arrival that seems fitting for tonight’s matchup. It’s here. We’ve arrived at the biggest game of the year. Saturday night in Salt Lake City? You bet. Since their last victory, the three teams Houston’s chasing for the second seed, Utah, Denver, and the Clippers, all lost. Tonight’s game is imminently important for several reasons. The Jazz are for real. They’re not a better team than Houston, but they’re more consistent. And a threat come playoffs. The Rockets faced Utah each of the last two postseasons, ending the Jazz’ season on both affairs. And if the playoffs started tomorrow, the Rockets and Jazz would be playing yet again in the first round, expect Utah would have home court advantage. Houston can change that with a victory tonight. The Rockets and Jazz only meet three times in the regular season this year. With the season series tied at a game apiece, tonight’s victor gets the tiebreaker if these squads were to finish with identical records in the crowded Western Conference. A win, however, is going to be exponentially more difficult than the 30-point beatdown Houston gave Golden State on Thursday night. If the Rockets want to escape Utah with a victory, they need to communicate defensively, it’s the key to the entire game.

The Jazz boast one of the NBA’s most raucous crowds, and combined with the altitude, give Utah the best home-court advantage in basketball. It’s also the best Jazz team since the days of John Stockton and Karl Malone. Yes. Utah is for real. All these factors make Salt Lake City the toughest place for opposing teams to play this season. The Jazz aren’t quite good enough to win it all. But they’re tactical enough to be a pest for the elites until someone finally eliminates them. Regardless, Houston’s one shot away from being up 2-0 on the Jazz this season. The Rockets won the first matchup in Utah without James Harden and Russell Westbrook, the night Eric Gordon exploded for 50-points. In their previous matchup, Houston’s last loss of the season, Bojan Bogdonavic crushed the Rockets hopes at the buzzer with a deep dagger from distance. A victory for Houston, and they win the tiebreaker with Utah, and take the four seed for the moment. A loss, and the Rockets fall back to 2 games behind the Jazz, and would lose any potential tiebreaker. The Clippers and Nuggets also lost recently. Houston can really make a move in the standings with a win tonight. It would put them within one game of the three seed, and only two games of the second spot. A loss tonight, and the Rockets are still two games out of the fourth spot, which the Jazz would hold onto.

The biggest game of the year snuck up on the Rockets. But they’re ready to avenge their heartbreaking loss at the buzzer the last time these teams met. All of a sudden, after seemingly being five games out of the second spot only games ago, Houston has a chance to cement their status in the four spot, and inch closer to second with a win tonight. The task at hand for this Rockets team won’t be easy, but they’ve arrived at a time when this units ready to conquer the challenge. Vivint Smart Home Arena is the NBA’s version of Death Valley, loud, and hard to come away with victories. Communication on defense is the key tonight. Holding Utah shooter’s off of their games (Bogdanovic, Donovan Mitchell, Joe Ingles, Mike Conley, Royce O’Neal, Jordan Clarkson) is important for the Rockets to squeak out a win tonight. Not all of these players will have off-nights, but if Houston can rotate, switch, contest, at least make things difficult.. they’ll have a chance. Lucky for the Rockets, the Jazz played last night, being upset by the Spurs in Utah. Houston needs to pounce on the Jazz early and hopefully Utah eventually exhibits tired legs. Still coming off a long break, Utah won’t be that tired, and they’ll have their home crowd booming behind them. The Rockets need to use language on defense to hold their squad together, in order to escape this conflict in Salt Lake with a victory.

 

Vivint Smart Home Arena:  Salt Lake City, Utah

 

Jersey Colors:

Houston Rockets (35-20):  Red

Utah Jazz (36-19):  White

 

TV:  8 PM CT – AT&T Sportsnet SW,  NBA League Pass

Firing on All Cylinders, Rockets Wallop Warriors, 135-105

Beautiful Execution.    Perfect Fit.    Tune-Up.

“You know, sometimes I amaze even myself,” Han Solo reveals in the Star Wars film, A New Hope. It may have been against the NBA’s worst team, but the Rockets finally did what they were supposed to do, and earned a much-needed blowout victory over the Warriors, 135-105, on Thursday night. In the first game back after the All-Star break, when most players are shaking off rust from the season’s longest break, a 30-point road victory is at least a tad amazing. At least to myself. The fact Houston showed little rust, and finally avoided any major letdowns throughout the game revealed this team just might have its mindset focused on the stretch run. James Harden led the way for the Rockets with 29 points and 10 assists, but Houston contributions from many parties, with 12 players seeing court time for coach Mike D’Antoni. Russell Westbrook finished with 21 points and 10 assists, but was ejected in the fourth quarter, after receiving his second tech of the night. As Houston moves forward in the season, Brodie has to be careful. Westbrook now has 13 technical fouls on the season. Only three tech’s away from 16, the amount that gets a player fined and a one-game suspension. There’s only two more back-to-backs this season for Houston. The Rockets are a completely different team without Brodie, and can’t afford to lose Russ beyond his resting on the remaining back-to-backs.

I can’t remember a player fitting in as seamlessly and quickly on a new team as Robert Covington. RoCo continues to be sensational starting for the Rockets. Covington scored 20 points, hit 5-of-10 three’s, and had 4 blocked shots for good measure. The combination of P.J. Tucker and RoCo creates havoc for opposing offenses. Since Covington’s arrival in Houston, it’s this dynamic defensive duo that’s most responsible for the Rockets forcing the most turnovers in the NBA, by a wide margin. It was hard to see Clint Capela leave, but it turns out it was the right move. Houston’s a visceral beast with Covington in exchange of Capela. And the new pieces they added could make them even more ferocious.

The only player that comes to mind when I think of RoCo’s debut, is Jeff Green, who had his Rockets debut, along with DeMarre Carroll, on Thursday night. Carroll only played 13 minutes, scoring 2 points on a pair of free throws. It was Green who made the night his own. Green saw 24 minutes of action, registering 17 points, including 4-of-5 from long range, and grabbed four boards. After this performance, unless Green falls under a rock, expect Houston to extend his 10-day contract when it expires, and sign him for the rest of the season. Jeff Green’s length is a vital component to the Rockets’ defense, who’s small-ball, switch-heavy style can use as much length as possible. If Houston doesn’t decide to keep Green, I’ll be shocked. What won’t be shocking, is a loss in the Rockets’ next game. The first game after the break in the Bay was just a tune-up for Saturday night’s showdown.

Up next, the squad heads to Salt Lake City to battle the Jazz. Utah’s fans are loud, obnoxious, and give the Jazz a true home-court advantage. This is the best Utah team since the days of John Stockton and Karl Malone. Yes, they’re that good. Combine that with the altitude, and Salt Lake City is the toughest place to play in the league this year. But they’re beatable. Houston already won earlier this season in Utah. And that was without Harden and Westbrook. The date was also much closer to the tragedy in Los Angeles, and teams were still visibly shook. On Saturday, expect to see the Jazz that shocked the Rockets at the buzzer the last time Houston faced Utah. Houston will need raise their intensity level against the Jazz, or they’ll be tuned out. But as the Rockets showed on Thursday… sometimes they even amaze themselves.

Rockets Seek Redemption, Battle Warriors in First Game After Break

Back in Action.    Stretch Run.    Final Pieces.

“You’re really lucky you know that? You didn’t have to wait your whole life to do something special,” Walter White tells Jesse in the Breaking Bad movie, El Camino. And after a special break that featured one of the more memorable All-Star games in recent history, the Rockets make their way to the Bay Area, continuing their journey towards accomplishing something truly special. Houston takes on Golden State as the Rockets try to avenge their Christmas-Day loss, which also took place in San Francisco. The Warriors still have the the worst record in the NBA, but they’ve added a new piece since the last time they faced Houston: Andrew Wiggins. Golden State’s newest star has been stellar since joining the Warriors. The former number one overall pick will be the focus of the Rockets’ defense tonight. Regardless, Wiggins is a player with All-Star potential who hasn’t performed at a high level on consistent basis. Meanwhile, Houston has two superstars, both in their primes, with James Harden and Russell Westbrook. On any given night, either one, or both, of the Rockets All-Stars could catch fire.

The Beard and Brodie both participated in the All-Star game in Chicago, with Harden’s stellar defense late in a hotly-contested fourth quarter helping Team LeBron secure the victory over Team Giannis. Despite this, when asked about strategy after the game, the Greek Freak said he was just trying to pass the ball to whoever Harden was guarding. Turns out, Giannis’ strategy failed. And in the process, over an All-Star break where the league was celebrated, including tributes to Kobe Bryant and David Stern, and where players met for the world’s greatest pickup game… James Harden may have gotten all the motivation he needs.

I don’t know what it is about Harden that provoked Giannis to throw unnecessary shade at the Beard in his comments post All-Star game. The Greek Freak, up until this point, was considered one of the classiest players in the NBA. Harden doesn’t even say much… his game does all the talking. And ignorant people can’t stand it, while players try and mask their fear (Giannis’ strategy to target Harden on defense truly failed) of the Beard. You’re not going to change James. But, you might motivate him, and this diss, in front of a worldwide audience… is about as big as it gets. If you think Harden isn’t motivated by these words, you don’t know The Beard. Expect James and Russ to lead the Rockets past the Warriors on Thursday night as the NBA season resumes action. Both squads will be shaking the rust off, but Houston’s superiorly talented, and should be primed to avenge their loss to Golden State earlier this season, on Christmas in the Bay. The Rockets also added some new pieces to their ship over the break. Houston added two players off the buyout market on Monday: DeMarre Carroll and Jeff Green. Both are 33-year old veterans who are solid defenders with versatile skill-sets. Green’s contract is a 10-day, but expect the Rockets to sign him for the rest of the season once that expires. These seasoned vets should be perfect additions to a Houston team fully-committed to small ball. Both players are 6’8, and will likely be the tallest Rockets on the court when they’re on the floor. Carroll and Green can both hit the three and take pride in their defense, the main reasons Rockets’ GM Daryl Morey signed them. Their availability isn’t clear yet for tonight’s contest, but both guys should be cleared to play in Houston’s next game, a much tougher affair on Saturday night in Utah. These could be the final pieces for the Rockets to reach the Finals in the Harden era. If Houston can stay healthy, these moves increase their chances at a title.

Thursday night’s game is vastly important if the Rockets want to keep ground in the standings. Houston wants to start the starch run towards the playoffs on a positive note. And with a date in the toughest place to play in basketball, Salt Lake City, looming on Saturday night, Houston needs to end their trend of falling to losing teams. There’s no excuses anymore for this Rockets team. Eric Gordon is questionable tonight with a shin bruise, but Houston has more than enough, whether EG plays or not, to batter the Warriors. Mike D’Antoni is still tinkering with his starting lineup, as the coach recently said he’s not sure who’ll get that fifth spot, Eric Gordon or Danuel House Jr. Splash Gordon’s a better fit leading the bench unit, and House is more at home with the starters. EG’s been one of the NBA’s best sixth men for years. And more importantly, House is sneakily having one of the best seasons in the league among role players. The Rockets are 26-11 when House starts, and only 8-9 when he comes off the bench. Therefore, the easy answer for D’Antoni should be Danuel House. Don’t expect to see much defense tonight. Houston will be rusty like all teams, after having 8 days off. The Warriors small-ball lineup will defend the Rockets better than expected, but look for Houston to eventually pull away, and win an easy one in the Bay. It’s time Harden, Russ, and the squad started punishing the league’s inferior teams. The Rockets have no more time to toy around with their opponents. Houston is lucky enough to be one of the few, true contenders for this year’s NBA Championship. But failing to capitalize on matchups like tonight’s will cost the team a shot at the title. It’s a nasty habit the Rockets have failed to kick all season. A victory in convincing fashion would be more than a win. This Houston squad’s innate desire to play down to their opponent’s level is the most frustrating aspect of the Rockets. They’ve had eight days off. Plenty of time to rest and recover, and the squad’s added a pair of new tools to the roster. It’s time for Houston to end their trend of losing to the worst. And bursting out of the All-Star break with a blowout win over the hated-Warriors… would be a step towards something special.

    

Chase Center:  San Francisco, California

 

Jersey Colors:

Houston Rockets (34-20):  Red

Golden State Warriors (12-43):  White

 

TV:  9:30 PM CT – TNT

Harden & Russ Power Rockets Past Celtics, 116-105

Dynamic Duos.    Forcing a Turn.    Break Time.

“We ride together, we die together, bad boys for life.” An oft-repeated phrase in the Bad Boys film franchise. One that’s been lingering in my head since the Rockets went all-in on the small-ball scheme. On Tuesday night, Houston made sure any bad memories from the previous loss didn’t linger, closing out the Celtics with an impressive 116-105 win on Tuesday night. This was how it was supposed to look… all along. James Harden and Russell Westbrook ruthlessly dominating opponents night-in, night-out. But, it hasn’t been that easy, and Harden and Russ have rarely shared the spotlight. It usually flickers from man to the other, with the Beard or Brodie shining, while the other struggles. However on Tuesday, the NBA’s best duo shared the spotlight with a pair of spectacular performances.

Harden finished with 42 points, 8 boards, and 7 assists. Russ continued his tear of MVP-level play, scoring 36 points to go along with 10 rebound and 5 dimes. When Harden and Russ are both playing to their potential, the Rockets are essentially unbeatable. If you think Houston’s backcourt is their only dynamic duo, you’re not watching closely enough. Robert Covington’s arrival has been in sync with the entire Rockets team, but most specifically P.J. Tucker. There tenacious combination on defense has been as much to marvel at as Houston’s All-Stars’ offensive heroics.

Since trading for Covington, the Rockets have forced the most turnovers in the NBA, and it’s not even close. Houston leads there list with 73 forced since RoCo’s arrival. The Sixers are second, with 55 forced turnovers. Houston’s stepped up their defensive intensity as they’ve gone small. And the numbers only back this up.

Houston now heads into the All-Star break. All-Stars Harden and Westbrook will head to Chicago to participate in the All-Star game, while others like P.J. Tucker, rest and recover for the NBA’s stretch run. 10 of the Rockets first 1t5 games out of the break are against teams with losing records. Houston needs to be ready to blast off starting the 20th in San Francisco, with a matchup against the Warriors, and a chance to redeem their disappointing Christmas loss. The Rockets need to channel the fire they bring against contenders and use it against every team the rest of the way. Houston is currently in the fifth spot, but only sit 3 games out of second. It’s achievable, the first seed still isn’t out of the question completely. The Rockets will need to go on a complete tear to make that a reality. A reality that won’t be going away any time soon with this team. Win or lose, with this Houston team… it’s small ball for life.

Houston Aims to Stop Boston’s Streak, Rockets Battle Celtics in Final Game Before Break

Key Communication.    Rollin’ C’s.    Streak-Enders.

The Rockets play their final game before the All-Star break on Tuesday night, as they host the streaking Boston Celtics. Houston is coming off a heartbreaking loss at the buzzer to Utah, at Toyota Center. Tonight, the squad will attempt to rid the sour taste that loss left with a victory over a very good Celtics team. Since dropping three straight games in the middle of January, Boston has been on a tear. Coming into Houston for tonight’s showdown, the Celtics are riding a 7-game winning streak, and have victories in 10 of their last 11 games. The Rockets are looking to avoid their own three game losing streak. Eric Gordon remains out for Houston, but if the Rockets play up to their potential, they should win tonight without EG. However, it won’t be easy. The Celtics close out their pre-All-Star break schedule with a date with the Clippers. They’re playing well in the midst of a tough stretch, with a sense of urgency. It’s something Houston could learn a thing or two from. Tuesday night gives the Rockets a chance to show the national audience they can still beat great teams when playing with focus and heart from start to finish.

Boston’s Kemba Walker, who they traded for Kyrie Irving in the offseason, along with Jayson Tatum and Gordon Hayward, are the Celtics biggest threats. But this is one of the deeper teams in the league, especially on the perimeter. The C’s also have Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart, defensive forces whose offensive games are less consistent. Boston also picked up the NBA’s most underrated offensive rebounder, in Enes Kanter. Look for Kanter to pose huge problems for the Rockets in the post. Kanter’s one of the few bigs left in the league with a solid post-up game. Expect Boston to look for mismatches Kanter exploits when he’s on the floor. Houston needs to be ready to double, and box out Kanter when he crashes the glass. Daniel Theis has emerged as a reliable starter for the Celtics this season, and has more of a traditional outside game seen in today’s NBA.

  Basically, the Rockets have their hands full tonight. Boston has plenty of players with strong driving ability. Containing the drive was Houston’s biggest weakness in their previous loss to Utah. Eric Gordon won’t be coming back tonight, so other guys will have to step up for the Rockets. It’s Ben McLemore’s birthday today, and Houston’s going to need a big night from Benny Mac if they want to top the Celtics. Hopefully, the birthday boy has some luck he can bring to the squad that’s stronger than the Irish.

 

Toyota Center:  Houston, Texas

 

Jersey Colors:

Boston Celtics (37-15):  Green

Houston Rockets (33-20):  Black

 

TV:  8:30 PM CT – TNT,  AT&T Sportsnet SW