Month: September 2020

Lethal Punch: Lakers End Rockets Season, Crush Houston 119-96

Game Over.    Changes at the Top.    Closing Window.

Houston’s season ended on Saturday night as the Rockets got blowout by the Lakers, 119-96. After winning the first game of the series, Houston became lifeless, and L.A. won four straight to force immediate changes in Harden and the team’s offseason. The Rockets were never in Game 5. They trailed to start the game 15-2. Whether it was the desire to go home, getting sick of the bubble, or just plain tired of giving effort, Houston had none to give in their final game of the season. Personally, I think House’s shenanigans put everything in a tailspin, blind-sighted the team, and led the Rockets to misery. House was a huge part of the rotation and was playing his best ball of his career, but after a life-changing mistake, House won’t be back as a Rocket next season.

Changes are already being made at the top. Head Coach Mike D’Antoni announced he’s resigning. Although, rumors were starting from day one of this season of Mike being axed at the end of this season, regardless the results. D’Antoni was a great coach for the Rockets, but suffered too many unfortunate cases of bad luck (CP3’s 2018 injury, this season’s House incident), to lead Houston to a title. The squad needs to find a coach who will motivate Harden to finally perform when the lights are brightest: deep in the playoffs.

Despite another successful season in terms of winning more games than losing, time’s starting to run out on the Rockets chances at the grand prize. Houston’s window for a championship in the James Harden era is closing. The Beard just turned 31 about a month ago. With his durability, Harden has at least 2-to-3 more years remaining as one of the league’s top-5 players. But P.J. Tucker is 35, and he’s not getting any younger. Westbrook is also 31, so Houston needs to find the right coach for next season. The NBA should be wide-open for at least the next few years with no dominant team on the landscape. If Houston can stay healthy and somehow avoid their annual playoff curses, the Rockets still have a chance to win the title in the next five years.

Rockets Aim to Stay Alive Against Lakers in Game 5

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.    Win or Go Home.    Deja Hou.

“When you come to the end of the line with a buddy who is more than a brother, and a little less than a wife, getting blind drunk together is really the only way to say farewell.” A quote from Quentin Tarantino’s latest effort, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. And if the Rockets want any chance of making a comeback against the NBA’s most Hollywood-ish franchise, they need to forget about their system. Get blind drunk. Small ball won’t work if the right decisions aren’t made, if the efforts not there.

Game 5 comes down to whoever wants it more, and Houston has to play like the hungrier team. Danuel House Jr. is out for the season, so the Rockets’ task won’t be any easier. Houston simply needs to play smarter basketball. And James Harden can’t have zero shot attempts in the fourth quarter. That’s inexcusable for the NBA’s back-to-back-to-back scoring Champion.

Most people have written Houston off the map after they fell behind 3-1 in the series after getting their spirit drained by L.A. in Game 4. It’s not impossible. Despite the mountainous task awaiting Houston, the Rockets had chances to win the first three games. Late-game execution is why Houston has their backs against the wall now, for the remainder of this series, however long it lasts. Hopefully, the Rockets play with the heart of a Champion and fight back for a victory to stay alive. Only two teams have come back from a 3-1 deficit in the second round in NBA Playoff history. Those teams? The 1995 Houston Rockets, and the 2015 Houston Rockets. It’s time for a little Deja-Hou. Harden and the Rockets can begin their journey to join that list with a dominant win in Game 5. The comeback begins tonight… or I’m blind drunk.

 

AdventHealth Arena:  Orlando, Florida

 

Jersey Colors:

Houston Rockets (1-3):  Black

Los Angeles Lakers (3-1):  White

 

TV:  7 PM CT  –  ESPN

Soul Mood: Rockets Spirit Drained, Fall to Lakers, 110-100, as L.A Takes Commanding 3-1 Series Lead

Endgame Near?    Desperate Measures.    Disappearing Act.

“Some people move on. But not us… not us.” Just a quote from Avengers: Endgame that perfectly sums up who these Houston Rockets really are. After a horrendous Game 4, where the Rockets played with little-to-no effort in a 110-100 loss, the squad finds themselves down 3-1 to Lakers, and the best player in the world. From Mike D’Antoni’s stubborn insistence on keeping the rotation the way it is.. not experimenting with bench players who might give more effort, to James Harden and Russell Westbrook.. who haven’t been the MVP’s they played like in the regular season, the Rockets seem to be stuck in a black hole, with no way out. The team apparently was blindsided by the Danuel House Jr. news, and today it was announced House will miss the rest of the season for breaking NBA Bubble protocol, and will not even be allowed to remain with his teammates. This certainly’s had an effect on the entire squad. After an inspirational Game 1 win, and a close, but frustrating Game 2 loss. The absence of Danuel House has turned the Rockets into a bunch of sloths on the court: apathetic, slow, nonchalant beings eagerly awaiting a trip back home instead of more bubble competition.

Houston trailed by as 21, and cut the lead to 5 in the fourth quarter. But they waited too late to start playing with spirit. Despite scoring 30 points in the final quarter, this game was lost before it began. And if the Rockets want any chance to win this series, they’re going to need a miracle, especially without House. Take it game by game, as the cliche goes. And the Rockets need to start with a solid win in Game 5. Hopefully L.A. lets their guard down, and Houston plays with the fire of a champion. Otherwise, Saturday night will be the Rockets final game of the season. Houston has to forget the past. These three straight losses are in the books, it’s time to run off three in a row for a spectacular comeback. It’s not going to be easy. Houston has to change things up, from changing the time of game Harden sits, to more minutes for Uncle Jeff, and some sort of desperation or sense of urgency on defense. The Rockets showed none in Game 4. James Harden was nowhere to be found. Westbrook had an average game. But Houston’s spirit was drained. L.A. took the Rockets soul in Game 4, and Harden and the Rockets have no choice but to find a way to come back stronger in Game 5.

Tomorrow night, someone’s moving on. Either LeBron James, who smells blood, will lead the Lakers to the Western Conference Finals, or the Rockets will move on from their funk (of the last two games in particular), and live to fight another day. Advancing in the NBA playoffs requires adjustments, and a willingness to change, and move on. We know the Lakes will be ready to move on the WCF, but will the Rockets be ready to fight ’til their last breath? Most teams learn from their mistakes, move on, and improve… but not the Rockets. And now, they’ll have to try and prove the world wrong if they want to move on to the next round.

Rockets Aim to Bounce Back, Even Series with Lakers

The Other Guys.    Mirror Vision.    Must-Win?

“If we were in the wild, I would attack you. Even if you weren’t in my food chain, I would go out of my way to attack you,” a quote from the Will Ferrell action-comedy The Other Guys. And what’s slowly turned evolved from an action packed series into a series of comic events, the Rockets find themselves in need of help entering Tuesday night’s Game 4 against the Lakers. Houston trails L.A. in the series, 1-2, yet the Rockets have been competitive in all three games. Houston won Game 1. In Game 2, Russ went berserk, and Markief Morris and Rajon Rondo helped the Lakers steal a win.

In Game 3, LeBron James went Game 7-Mode, and dominated for an L.A. victory. More importantly though, was the play of role players, or the “other guys” in Game 3. The Rockets had only one player score off the bench. Kyle Kuzma had his best game of the series with 21 points, and Rondo came up clutch with 14 points and a few clutch threes to seal the win. Simply put, Houston’s still in the series. Similair to their first round series against OKC, Harden and co.’s biggest weakness is finishing games. Especially without Danuel House, who could miss the rest of the series, And the bench needs to produce more for the Rockets to beat the Lakers in Game 4, espeically without Danuel House Jr., whose shenanigans may keep him out for the remainder of the series.

L.A. made adjustments and beat the Rockets, playing Houston’s style in Game 3. Other than Anthony Davis, the only other big man that played for the Lakers was JaVale McGee, who only saw 8 minutes of action. In the last two losses to L.A., Dwight Howard hasn’t played either. Size isn’t winning this series for the Lakers. It’s Houston’s costly turnovers, lack of production off the Rockets’ bench, along with clutch shots and a dominant performance by King James. That’s why L.A.’s up 2-1 in the series. The Rockets need to leave it all on the court. House’s presence was sorely felt in the Game 3 loss. If Houston can get more production from the likes of Austin Rivers and Ben McLemore, the Rockets have a legitimate shot at evening the series tonight.

So is Game 4 a must-win for Houston? Technically, no. The Rockets could lose, and they’ll still live to fight another day. But tonight’s Game 4 ultimately determines the tone of the rest of the series. With a loss, Houston falls behind 3-1, and will need to beat super-motivated LeBron three straight times to advance. Good luck with that mission. That’s a mission Houston can avoid with a victory in Game 4. With a win, the Rockets knot the series at two games apiece, and get some confidence back. Tonight’s game will determine if Houston is still in it to win it. Game 4 is not a must-win for Harden, Russ, and the Rockets, but if they lose Game 4, they’re going to need a miracle of sorts to comeback against a revitalized LeBron James. If Houston’s “others”, guys like Ben McLemore, Austin Rivers, and Jeff Green step up and fill the void Houston’s house left. But they have to attack the Lakers from the onset and be ready to finish, or Houston’s season is one step closer to finished. L.A. and LeBron are at the top of the NBA’s food chain. It’s time for the Rockets to prove they belong in the same tier as L.A., and attack the league’s Alpha Predator… if they want to save their season tonight.

 

AdventHealth Arena:  Orlando, Florida

 

Jersey Colors:

Los Angeles Lakers: (2-1):  Yellow

Houston Rockets (2-1):  Red

 

TV:  6 PM CT  –  TNT

LeBronimated: James Sets Tone for L.A., as Lakers Beat Rockets 112-102, Snatch 2-1 Series Edge

House Violation.    LeBron James Seven.    Tip of the Cap.

“Wherever there’s a fight so hungry people can eat, I’ll be there.” One of many classic quotes from The Grapes of Wrath. And in Game 3, Houston felt LeBron’s wrath. The Lakers superstar showed why, even at age 35, he’s still the best player in the world. LeBron was the hungriest player from the opening tip, and was everywhere on both ends of the court. James scored 29 of his 36 points in ferociously dominant first half that set the tone for the entire game. Houston held a 3-point lead at halftime, 64-61, but you knew LeBron was in Game 7 mode, and the edge didn’t feel comfortable. Even after three quarters, and a tie game, LeBron’s presence completely controlled the environment. From his dominant play on both ends, to his persuasive barking at the refs, the guy most compared to Michael Jordan wasn’t losing Game 3. The disheartening fact is the Rockets didn’t play poorly. James Harden and Russell Westbrook combined for 63 points, but the lack of bench play and LeBron’s overwhelming presence resulted in a Game 3 loss to the Lakers, 112-102, giving L.A. a 2-1 edge in the series. The Beard had 33 points, 9 dimes, and 9 boards to lead Houston, despite being double-teamed nearly every time he touched the ball. Russ had a much-improved Game 3 compared to his previous outing. Westbrook scored 30 points on 13-for-24 shooting, and also grabbed 8 rebounds while dishing out 6 assists. For L.A., LeBron set the tone with a 36 points, and Anthony Davis was solid enough for the Lakers, with 26 point and 15 points. 

Houston shot 40% from beyond the arc in Game 3, and still lost. The Rockets usually always win they’re making their threes. Maybe they didn’t fire enough. For a team who’s no stranger to launching 60 threes in a game, they attempted half as many (30) in Game 3. Part of that’s due to L.A.’s defensive adjustments. Forcing guys to drive and finish. The Lakers took pushed Houston into the paint and off the perimeter, forcing the Rockets to shoot less than a typical Houston launch-fest from deep. The Beard and Brodie did their part, outscoring LBJ and AD 63 to 61. The story of Game 3 came down to the bench. Houston’s Danuel House Jr.’s absence was sorely felt in Game 3. As I wrote in my pregame (before hearing news if his shenanigans), House is the glue guy for the Rockets. And in a game that was back-and-forth for the three quarters, House’s absence stunted Houston’s depth, preventing the Rockets from breaking away for a win. Instead, the Lakers outscored the Rockets by 10 points in the final quarter, and pulled away as Rajon Rondo hit some key threes late, which has happened in years, scoring 14 points to help seal the victory for L.A. Kyle Kuzma also stepped up with 21 point off the bench for his best game of the series. Houston’s MVP’s outscored L.A.’s superstars were but the Lakers “others” outplayed the Rockets “others.” Houston needs more any sort of production from Austin Rivers and Ben McLemore, who have been ghosts in this series. In Game 3, two of the Rockets biggest bench assets in the regular season combined to log 21 minutes, but combined for 0 points, rebounds, and assists. Houston needs more production from Rivers and Benny Mac if they want to have any chance against LeBron and the LakeShow in Game 4. And if the Rockets want any hope of winning this series, they need House back. But, that’s looking unlikely, as House violated NBA Bubble-protocol. Rumors are House had a female Covid-19 tester in his hotel room. He’s been ruled out for Game 4, and his status for the rest of the series is currently unknown, but it doesn’t look like House will return. And that’s a huge blow for the Rockets. Along with P.J. Tucker and Robert Covington, House is one of the few guys on Houston who can at least make things difficult for LeBron. LBJ’s forceful energy was the biggest factoring setting the  the tone of Game 3. Even with a Houston halftime lead at the break, if you know LeBron, you knew the Rockets were in trouble. LBJ played the best all-around game I’ve seen him play in a while. Houston played well enough to win Game 3. They just got outplayed by the best player on the planet. And you gotta tip your hat. He put on quite a show. But the Rockets aren’t done. Unless Rajon Rondo turns into Steph Curry again, Houston still has a chance to even the series in Game 4.

Robert Covington was brutally elbowed by Anthony Davis in Game 3 during a dirty play, initiated by Kyle Kuzma. Luckily, RoCo is listed as probable for Game 4. The Rockets need RoCo if they have any chance in Game 4 without House. Despite denying his involvement, House is currently under investigation by the NBA, and likely ruined the season, and potentially stained legacies on Houston’s MVP’s Harden and Westbrook. From a human standpoint it’s understandable. The Bubble is also an “abstinence camp” in disguise, a camp no one would want to be stuck in for months. It’s human nature what House did, but in the process, he jeopardized his career, reputation, and he’s put the Rockets on the brink of being closer to vacation. Kind of ironic, House’s quote he mentioned before seemingly disappearing from team activities, “I’m slept on. Heavily.. with a pillow and a blanket.” Maybe he just had enough, and thought he could get away with it, return with more gusto. Instead the Rockets are in big trouble heading into Game 4. Rumors are the omnipresent LeBron James snitched on Danuel House Jr. He knows the Rockets are the better team when both teams have their full squads. I’m not saying LBJ was involved, but I wouldn’t be surprised. Game 4 is a must-win situation for Houston. The Rockets aren’t coming back down 1-3 against these Lakers. Houston needs the bench to step up, and the shots have to fall. The Beard and Brodie need to continue to attack the rack with visceral intensity and the focus of a rifle-sniper. It’s gonna be quite a fight. Hungry players will be all over the court in Game 4. Houston needs their best performance of the season on Tuesday. The next tilt won’t be any easier than Game 3. If anything, with these swirling rumors, and a season on the line, the next battle in this series could be the game that decides the victor, and swings the momentum permanently their way. In Game 4, The only problem for Houston is… LeBron will be there, and he’s not going anywhere.

Rockets, Lakers, Face Off for Series Supremacy

Pillows and Blankets.    The Brodie Bounce Back.    Turning Point.

 

“I’m slept on heavily. With a pillow and a blanket,” Danuel House Jr. said yesterday, as the Rockets and Lakers face off in Game 3 on Tuesday night, with the series knotted at a game apiece. And, House is right. The national media has barely heard of him. Although Houston’s superstars James Harden and Russell Westbrook obviously own the spotlight, that doesn’t mean there aren’t diamonds hiding in the dark. And since House arrived in Houston, his progression from stints in the G-League into one of the league’s most versatile role players, is the definition of hard work and perseverance. Personally, I haven’t imposed House’s impact, and the importance the Houstonian’s presence brings to the squad. If P.J. Tucker is the heart and soul of the Rockets, Danuel House Jr. is the ultimate hustling sacrificer. He’s the orchestrator who keeps everyone in their respective roles. Whether starting or coming off the bench, House’s mindset remains focused on the ultimate goal: making winning plays on every possession. House has quietly had a solid postseason, making hardly and mistakes. Houstonian’s “glue guy” deserves more credit. With P.J. Tucker needed as more of a defensive presence inside due to being a “center,” House has emerged as the Rockets true mesh director. He may not put up the flashiest numbers, but his energy and effort is infectious. Houston isn’t winning this series without House, the most unselfish player on the squad.

In Game 2, the Rockets rallied from a 21-point deficit, only to throw away the game late. If Westbrook doesn’t go kamikaze at the end of Game 2, Houston is probably holding onto a 2-0 series lead right now. Westbrook’s turnovers were costly, but Brodie realizes the mistakes he made. In Game 3, expect Russ to bounce back and have his best performance of the series. The question is, what will L.A. do? They made adjustments in Game 2. Besides Anthony Davis, the Lakers basically put out a small-ball lineup. And they used a zone, which Houston seemed to solve in the third quarter as they mounted a comeback. JaVale McGee only played 8 minutes, and Dwight Howard was out with an injury. So, if the Eric Gordon renaissance continues, and Westbrook returns to form, the Rockets should be able to instill more fear in the Lakers’ defense. Coach Mike D’Antoni and Harden even mentioned sensing fear in L.A. when the Rockets attack on offense. Houston needs to stick to the game plan, whether any early L.A. storm, and push the pace without costly turnovers. Despite losing Game 2, the Rockets like their chances heading into Game 3. Russ won’t play that terribly again (hopefully), and all Houston needs to do is space the floor and stick to playing Rockets basketball. Harden and the co. won convincingly in Game 1. And despite trailing by 21 in Game 2, they came back, and if not for late mistakes, the Lakers would be sweating hard right now.

Game 3 is the turning point in this series. With the Rockets riding the wave of an epic Game 7 win coming into the series, and the Lakers being off for a few days. It’s not much of a surprise the series is tied 1-1 after two games. Basically, common sense could have told you this was going to happen. But Game 3, that’s when the conversation begins to turn, and we really get an eye into who has the edge in this series. Everyone still thinks the Lakers are going to win the series. Houston might have woken some people up with their Game 1 win. You can expect these same people to peer open their eyes a little wider tonight. Harden and Russ can take you so far, but, despite the expectations, they’re not going to be on every night. Houston knows they need to rely on their depth, one huge advantage they have over the Lakers in this series. House is L.A.’s nightmare: Houston’s most versatile option overall (mentally, and on both ends of the court). And after tonight’s crucial Game 3, don’t be surprised if LeBron has trouble sleeping… even with a pillow and a blanket.

 

AdventHealth Arena:  Orlando, Florida

 

Jersey Colors:

Los Angeles Lakers (1-1):  White

Houston Rockets (1-1):  Black

 

TV:  8 PM CT  –  TNT

Back 2 Earth: Rockets Fall 117-109, as Lakers Even Series

Russ-ian Roulette.    Switching Gears.    Out of Gas.

Houston trailed 42-21 in the second quarter, as Game 2 appeared to be all Lakers, but it wasn’t too late for a comeback. Except, the Rockets rallied to even retake the lead in a stunning comeback. However, the squad ran out of steam towards the end, losing Game 2 to L.A., 117-109, as we’ve got an even series on our hands. Houston had a chance to win this game. In fact, they should have won this game. If it weren’t for Russell Westbrook’s Giannis’-like antics, the Rockets are up 2-0 right now. Russ was simply out of control, turning the ball over in key clutch possessions as Houston tried to save its comeback. The comeback required maximum effort, and after playing every other day for the last two weeks, maybe fatigue caught up with the Rockets near the end.

In Westbrook’s case, he needs to play smarter. Russ had 7 ugly turnovers. It looks like his mind is moving faster than his body. We all know Westbrook only knows one way to play: at 110% ferocity. Well, he needs to learn how to switch gears when necessary. Houston’s Ferrari on the  court has to slow down. These costly turnovers will cost the Rockets their season if Brodie can’t learn to play with more poise. James Harden had 27 points for Houston, and shot the ball well, but with his partner in crime, Westbrook, losing his mind with his frenetic play, cost Houston the game. Brodie took seven shots from distance. Westbrook hadn’t taken more than six threes since January. Brodie needs to stick to attacking the basket. He’s never been a long-distance shooter. Russ knows the mistakes he made, and he’ll play better in Game 3. Westbrook has to perform under control, if the Rockets want any chance of gaining the upper hand in this series.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis performed to expectations to lead the Lakers. LeBron had close to a 28-point triple-double. AD finished with 34 points and 10 boards. But it was the insanely-hot shooting of Markieff Morris who had a spurt of four straight made three’s (and went 5-5 for the game from deep) that gave the L.A. such a size-able advantage, and allowed the Lakers to hold off the Rockets. Kyle Kuzma had 13 points in 21 minutes for L.A., but otherwise, Houston is a much-deeper team than the Lakers. We can argue all day who has the better superstars, but after each team’s best two players… the Rockets bench, and rest of the squad is much more talented and experienced than L.A.’s

Despite the loss, Houston has some positive notes to take out of Game 2’s loss. They trailed by 21, but rallied to take the lead, and probably would have sealed the comeback without Brodie’s turnover-frenzy. Markief Morris isn’t shooting 5-for-5 to save the Lakers, again. The Rockets seemed to figured out the Lakers zone in the third quarter, in the midst of the their comeback. And Game 2 will be Westbrook’s worst game in this series. Russ can’t play possibly play any worse in terms of decision-making. Brodie will be back to his usual self, hungry for a win in Game 3. He better be. Or the Rockets are in trouble and they could find themselves trailing in this series, and.. eventually on the trail back home… just a little too soon.

Rockets Aim to Clutch Series Control, Scramble with Lakers in Game 2

The Greatness Test.    L.A. Fosters in Help.    Mirroring Urgency.         

 

“Great men are not born great, they grow great,” one the many riveting quotes from The Godfather, brings to mind tonight’s measure of greatness, as the Rockets and Lakers play Game 2. This greatness applies specifically to James Harden. LeBron James has always been great. Labeled “The Choses One” back in high school, LBJ was a star from day one in this league. On the other hand, Harden, has gone from Sixth Man of the Year, to arguably the greatest offensive force the game’s ever seen, and one of the league’s best players. Houston needs one of those “Unguardable Tour” performances from the Beard tonight. Game 2 is the equality of Mission Impossible for the Houston Rockets. Harden and the Rockets dominated the Lakers almost from start-to-finish in Game 1. LeBron James didn’t score in the fourth quarter, and only had 20 points. Expect “King James” to play with an added sense of urgency from the opening tip. As great a job as Eric Gordon, P.J. Tucker, and Robert Covington did in Game 1 guarding LeBron, they all have to be prepared from tonight’s incoming freight train. The task will not be easy. Anthony Davis is ready to wreak havoc in the paint. Everyone on the squad needs to help out, forcing Alex Caruso, and the other Lakers to beat Houston gives them a better chance.

The Rockets have to mirror L.A.’s sense of urgency in Game 2. Just because Houston won Game 1 does NOT mean it’s time to get comfortable, and be satisfied with a 1-1 series split. If Harden and the Rockets get complacent, they’re in big trouble in a game that’s already got Houston’s back against the wall. The Los Angeles Lakers, the NBA’s darlings and favorite franchise are down 0-1 in a series the league desperately wants to see L.A. win, so they can get their precious Lakers-Clippers matchup in the Western Conference Finals. So what does the NBA do? They bring in the cavalry for Game 2: referee Scott Foster. An official who believes the spotlight’s on him, and that viewers are tuning in just to see his corrupt egomaniacal antics. Houston’s most-hated ref arrives just in time to try and save the day for L.A. Before Game 7’s win over OKC, a game which Foster also officiated, but featured his archenemy in Chris Paul as well, the Rockets had lost the previous seven playoff games Foster officiated. The only reason Houston survived Game 7, and prevented Foster from wrecking the Rockets plan agains, is the only thing Scott Foster hates more than the Houston Rockets, is president of the NBA Players Association, who happens to be Chris Paul. Houston got lucky, besides being great down the clutch in Game 7 to win a Foster-officiated game in which the result carried such weight and value. If the Rockets have any chance of taking an impressive 2-0 lead in this series, Houston has to match L.A.’s sense of urgency, and play hard for 48 minutes.

Harden, Russell Westbrook and the entire squad needs to possess a killer mindset Sunday night on primetime with the bright lights, and everyone watching. The Lakers are down, which will no doubt garner more viewers for Game 2, as most people don’t recognize the Rockets as contenders. So these causal fans will be tuned in tonight. And despite how well they played in the first game, Houston needs to dial everything up if they’re going to match LeBron and the Lakers attempt to exert their will on Houston tonight. LeBron is poised to have one of those 38-point triple double tonight. And expect Anthony Davis to finish with even more than the 25 points and 14 rebounds he had in Game 1. Little does he know, he can change positions like P.J. Tucker changes shoes, but Tucker will always be AD’s primary defender. The good news for Houston is, they shot only 36% from beyond the arc in Game 1. The Rockets didn’t have their best offensive night, but it was good enough with their great defense to outplay the Lakers. If Houston wants to beat L.A. and their newest player, Scott Foster, tonight the Rockets need to shoot the lights out. Foster can make every call in L.A.’s favor, but if the shots are falling for the Rockets, their’s nothing Foster can do but watch in misery.

As much as the refs can will be on LeBron and the Lakers side, Houston has a chance if they don’t get apathetic and off to a bad start. The Rockets need to keep their foot on their gas, and show the “Lakers in 5” predictors that H-Town’s for real. Houston has to take advantage of every scenario in Game 2. Los Angeles will no doubt make adjustments, but they know they can’t guard Harden or Russell Westbrook. And the Beard and Brodie know they’re unstoppable. Both Houston’s superstars have a chance to add to their respective legacies tonight with an impressive win. Most notably for Harden, well, Westbrook too, but since Harden will get more slander if the Rockets bow out early again in the playoffs, this series is about the Beard. Can Harden be great enough to put the Rockets up 2-0? With the league fostering LeBron help to try and ensure Houston won’t put L.A. in an 0-2 hole, Westbrook needs to be even better in Game 2 as well. And Eric Gordon needs to continue his shooting roll. If Splash Gordon, P.J. Tucker and Robert Covington get the help they need on defense, and Houston ups the intensity from Game 1 on Sunday night, there’s nothing even Scott Foster can do to stop the Rockets.

Regardless of who’s officiating the game tonight, this one comes down to whichever team plays with more sense of urgency. The Lakers know they’re in trouble. Expect LeBron to be great, and L.A. to come out swinging. If the “other” Lakers don’t suddenly all have Lu Dort-like Game 7 performances, Houston has enough firepower to weather the Lakers early storm. Harden and the Rockets grain control of the series with a win tonight, or LeBron further cements his legacy, and keeps the Lakers in the series. And the pressure of a Game 7 with LeBron, something no team wants to face, becomes more of a reality. I’ll just take a random guess now, but something in my gut tells me, if this series goes the distance, don’t be surprised if Scott Foster’s the lead official in that game too. In order to avoid a LeBron Fostered Game 7, Houston needs a lights out shooting performance tonight to really to make the Lakers start to sweat. This is as tough as it gets for the Rockets. L.A. earned the West’s number one seed for a reason. LeBron James is one of the greatest players of all time, and is bound to have a bounce back performance. With LBJ leading the sense of urgency for the Lakers, Houston needs to be in attack-mode on offense, and put the pressure on L.A. early in the game. If the Rockets are ready to launch, they’ll get off to a good start and weather the incoming Laker storm. But Houston needs to keep its foot torched on the gas pedal. It’s a measure of greatness tonight. 36 points from the Beard isn’t going to cut it for Houston tonight. The Rockets need more from Harden and Russ, to prevent LBJ and the Lakers from making a statement. It’s time to show everyone: after all, it’s a small-ball basketball world. LeBron might have been born as the “chosen one”, lauded on the cover of Sports Illustrated since he was in high school. But after years of improvement, dedication, and growth into greatness, right now… Harden’s the chosen one.

AdventHealth Arena:  Orlando, Florida

 

Jersey Colors:

 

Houston Rockets (1-0):  Red

Los Angeles Lakers (0-1):  Black

 

TV:  7:30 PM CT  –  ABC

Statement James: Harden’s 36 Points Lift Rockets to 112-97 Cruise Over Lakers in Series Opener

The “Other” James.    Greatest Show on Court.    Blazing a Different Trail.

“I’m the guy who does his job. You must be the other guy,” one of many classic quotes from Martin Scorsese’s The Departed. And a series with all the makings of a classic began on Friday night, as the Rockets stunned the Lakers. with an easier victory than anyone expected. Houston shut down L.A., winning 112-97, to take a 1-0 lead in the series. You all know LeBron James. The guy’s who’s been doing this job for over a decade. LBJ’s supposed to be here. He’s been to this round every year he hasn’t been injured, minus his rookie season. “King James” has become a familiar face to NBA fans throughout the playoffs over the years. His presence in the postseason has become as certain as life, death and taxes. LeBron may not always win, but he does his job, and when healthy usually carries his team deep into the playoffs. But the times seem to be changing. Who exactly is this “other James? The one with the lengthy beard, a strong, ball-handling wizard. The one who’s patented step-back move is copied around the league. He’s not even supposed to be here right? He fails to show up in the playoffs, right? So… what’s he doing here anyway? And he definitely doesn’t play any defense, right? Wrong. The “other” James is here to make a statement, a passing of the torch to King James torch from one player to the other. LeBron can do his job, but if his teammates don’t step up, Mr. Harden’s here to disrupt LBJ’s sights on another ring. After Game 1, so far the “other” James has outplayed the James that gets Jordan comparisons. 

The Beard feasted on a Dort-less defense. Harden finished at the rack with relative ease, en route to 36 points and 5 dimes to lead the Rockets. Russell Westbrook   excelled as Robin to Harden’s Batman, scoring 24 points, while grabbing 9 boards and dishing 6 assists. When Houston’s Batman and Robin combine to top the 60-point mark, the Rockets are nearly really tough to beat, with an 82% winning percentage in games their stars reach the 60-point plateau. And Eric Gordon showed, that maybe, just maybe Splash Gordon is finally back. After a critical Game 7 performance in the first round, EG finished with 23 points (11 in the fourth quarter), and also showed explosive ability to get to the rim. More impressive than anything EG did on the floor was his ability to contain LeBron, without seeming to gassed. Maybe LeBron’f finally feeling the effects of aging after a game agains the fastest, most potent offensive force the NBA’s ever seen. And the squad with this offensive force, Houston, also happen to have the best defensive rating in the playoffs. The Rockets are getting it done on both ends.

All that racket about L.A.’s size being an issue for Houston. Anthony Davis tried to dominate P.J. Tucker. P.J.’s raw strength and wide body. However, despite the height difference, P.J. prevented A.D. from making a huge impact. Davis would’ve had a better chance trying to bust through a vault. When people say P.J. Tucker is strong and one of the best defenders in the NBA, that’s no cliche. The fact P.J. Tucker’s never won the defensive player of the year award is a shame. LeBron James scored only 20 points, as EG continues to thrive as a perimeter defender this postseason. Gordon “passively” contained LeBron, and it was impressive to say the least. LBJ was still getting a feel for this matchup… he knows the uphill battles Houston presents and the war that awaits. Expect King James to be more aggressive for the rest of the series, but this was a great start for the Rockets defensively. After LBJ and AD, Houston held everyone else for the Lakers in check. Harden and the Rockets have to prepare for a motivated, driven freight train with no regard for human life, aka the man LeBron James will be in Game 2.

After Game 1, LeBron compared the Rockets to the NFL’s Rams of the past, saying, “there’s no way you can simulate that speed.” Houston is too quick for the Lakers. Granted, it’s only one game. But, the Rockets winning isn’t what makes this series so interesting. It’s how they won. After trailing 7-0 to start the game, Houston ended up leading for the majority of play, and by as many as even 19 at one point. And the Rockets pulled away in the final quarter, where they held LeBron James scoreless as the “other” James ensured his team would get the victory to start off this battle of behemoths. On Friday night, L.A. learned this lesson the hard way: Harden and Russ are a completely different breed of animal than Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum, who the Lakers faced in their first-round win over the Trail Blazers. And many “experts” compared Portland and Houston’s backcourt as similar, the Blazers have won All-Stars, but Rockets have two formers MVP’s, and more firepower. And yes, the Blazers won Game 1 in the first round, but that was it, they didn’t win again. Technically, it’s still possible for that to happen to the Rockets, but Houston’s is blazing a different trail than Portland. The Lakers, while just not showing up in Game 1 against the Blazers, got flat-out beatdown by the Rockets in Game 1 of the second round. L.A. doesn’t just have to play better. It’s not that simple. The Lakers have to make adjustments. But, the Rockets depth really exposed the L.A. in Game 1. It will be interesting to see what ideas LeBron and Lakers Coach Frank Vogel use to attempt to adjust to Houston’s firepower on both ends of the floor. Houston’s arsenal of versatile bigs, P.J. Tucker, Robert Covington, and Jeff Green, contained AD, JaVale McGee, and Dwight Howard in Game 1. And as of now, Los Angeles has no answers for stopping the Beard or the Brodie. Russ and Harden made Game 1 look like an execution layup drill, getting pretty much whatever they wanted on the court.

The Rockets have to maintain their focus heading into Game 2. With LeBron’s experience, you know he’s coming out with a Game 7-level mindset in the next game, and if Houston gets too comfortable, this series could be tied too quickly. Harden and the Rockets have an opportunity to cherish, a chance at making the Lakers sweat by beating them in Game 2, and putting L.A. in an 0-2 hole. If Houston wants to take the next game, and a two game edge in the series as well, the squad needs to bring the same defensive intensity and hustle they showed in Game 1. LeBron James, the guy who’s face represents the league more than anyone, will show up in Game 2. And as LBJ found out in Game 1, don’t forget about the Bearded maestro. A driving sensation whose ball handling skills, quickness, and shooting determination push him one step closer to taking King James’ title as the NBA’s best player. It’s the other James: Harden. The one player more determined to win than anyone in the Bubble. You know… the “other” guy.

Rockets Ride Momentum as Battle with Lakers Begins

Ready to Launch.    Rhythm vs. Rest.    The James Game.

I’ll let you in on a little surprise. As the Houston Rockets and the Los Angeles Lakers get set to do battle for the first time, the LakeShow’s in trouble. The Rockets are riding a wave of momentum coming off their seven game survival series over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Los Angeles hasn’t played a meaningful game in weeks. Houston has the advantage tonight. As to the rest of the series, that remains to be seen. Tonight’s Game 1 is critically important for the Rockets if they want to upset the Lakers. and prove their squad worthy of being talked about as contenders. The Lakers know they’re in trouble tonight. Rajon Rondo returns for the first time in what seems like months, as the only reliable perimeter defender besides LeBron James. Speaking of James, this series will likely be determined on which James player better: LeBron, or James Harden. The Beard’s dominated the Lakers since LeBron’s been with L.A., and he’s outscored LeBron the last seven times the two have faced off. Houston’s ready to launch, and show everyone that it’s a small world after all. It has to be, the small ball scheme has to work, especially on defense, if the Rockets have any chance at stopping the bigger Lakers.

Tonight’s first game is all about rhythm versus rest. The Rockets come into this series lucky to be playing the Lakers. Houston squeaked by OKC in the first round, and won a decisive Game 7 by two points. If there’s a positive to look at for the Rockets, Russell Westbrook didn’t play in the first four games of that series, and his improved play as he conditions back into basketball shape has been key into keeping Houston alive in the bubble. Houston Coach Mike D’Antoni has stated that Eric Gordon, who was brilliant guarding Chris Paul at the end of Game 7, will start out defensively on LeBron James. LBJ is a completely different animal. EG, and P.J. Tucker, who will be guarding Anthony Davis, will need help stopping L.A.’s focal points on offense.

Look for the Beard to have a big Game 1. All the pressure’s on L.A. to start this series, and Harden, coming off his big block to save Houston’s season, should be locked in to feast on a weaker perimeter defense than what he saw against OKC. LeBron James, always locked in, the deeper into each postseason is obviously L.A.’s biggest threat along with the NBA’s best big man, Anthony Davis. The Lakers won’t be able to stop Harden and Westbrook. And, like it or not, LeBron and AD will get theirs. This is going to come down to the “others” on each team stepping up. The better bench will likely be on the winner of this series. Although, the superstar power is heavy, and if one duo, either Harden and Russ, or LBJ and AD, dominates over the other, this one could be over sooner than later. But expect to see a longer series than most people have predicted. And be prepared to be surprised tonight. Despite being favored going into Game 1, the Rockets are coming in for a little surprise… it’s a small world after all. 

 

AdventHealth Arena:  Orlando, Florida

 

Jersey Colors:

 

Houston Rockets (0-0):  White “Space City” Edition

Los Angeles Lakers (0-0):  Purple

 

TV:  8 PM CT – ESPN