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Rockets Open Season with Showdown in Portland,  Facing Blazing Adversity

Opening Night (Remix).    A New Reality.    Knocking on Wood.

“Fasten your seatbelts. It’s going to be a bumpy night,” a quote from the classic film All About Eve. And at the Moda Center in Portland tonight, this evening’s all about James. After their first game on Wednesday was postponed, the Houston Rockets finally get their season under way on Saturday night. And buckle up, this one could get bumpy for the Rockets. Houston takes on Rocket-killer Damian Lillard and the Portland Trail Blazers in this Opening Night Remix. The Blazers lost their opener to Utah by 20 points. Expect Dame and C.J. McCollum to be hungry to avoid an 0-2 start. After not being able to suit up the minimum (8) players required to play in a game, the Rockets barely made it, coasting into Portland with 9 available players tonight. Houston is devastatingly short-handed, with a James Harden who’s head’s not quite right leading the way. Joining Harden in the starting lineup tonight will be David Nwaba, Danuel House Jr., P.J. Tucker, and Christian Wood. John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins, Eric Gordon, and Mason Jones are all being quarantined for 7 days, and will miss at least tonight’s matchup and Monday night’s game in Denver.

It’s a new reality for the NBA. Playing outside a bubble. The Rockets were the first team to fall victim, but they won’t be the last. Expect a plethora of games to feature players out due to the virus. It’s inevitable. But, like the MLB and NFL, can the NBA fight through without a bubble guiding every player’s single move? The NBA is the smartest and most forward-thinking of all the American professional sports leagues. Commissioner Adam Silver has done a tremendous job, from his execution of the bubble, to his navigating these entire set of unprecedented circumstances. The NBA’s in good hands, but there still might lie bumps on the road ahead.

As for tonight’s season opener, the Rockets will pray to the heavens James Harden cares about basketball and winning, specifically tonight’s matchup. Because if Houston is going to counter the Blazers’ firepower backcourt of Lillard and McCollum, they’re going to need Harden to go for at least 35. Otherwise, don’t expect the Rockets to survive this blaze of torture. Houston, down three of their main rotational players, is heavily outmanned in this matchup. Hopefully, little-known Christian Wood can make an impact like he did in his lone pre-season game, and team up with Harden to lead the Rockets to a W. Someone’s gonna have to step up. Besides Harden. That’s if the Beard decides to show up at all. Welcome to the return of Houston Rockets basketball. A story, where their best player, holds their very fate in his very carefree hands. The Rockets have had battles throughout the Harden-era in there Mode Center. Most notably, that shot Lillard hit to end Houston’s season in 2016. Their won’t be the usual buzz and noise from one of the NBA’s loudest arenas, but expect the Blazers to have no desire to fall to 0-2. Hopefully, James Harden wants to prove he’s still the best offensive player in the world, whether to attract his trade suitors, or because he loves to hoop. Regardless, Houston needs a retro Unguardable Tour performance from the Beard. In his first game as the NBA’s new modern Dennis Rodman. Leading a group of youngsters, most of whom haven’t seen much NBA action in their careers. Against a veteran playoff team poised to make the leap from pretenders to serious contenders this season. And so, the Rockets have themselves a mountain to climb if they want to escape Portland alive tonight. Fasten your seatbelts… it’s going to be a bumpy night.

Moda Center:  Portland, Oregon

 

Jersey Colors:

Houston Rockets (0-0):  Black

Portland Trail Blazers (0-1):  Red

 

TV:  9 PM CT  –  NBA TV,  AT&T Sportsnet SW

Hardened Hostages with Savage Tricks:  Houston Rockets 2020/2021 Season Preview

A New Era Begins.    Redemption Season.    Doctoring the Elephant. 

“It’s what it is,” a repetitive quote from Martin Scorcese’s mob epic, The Irishman, one that signifies a kind of certainty, no matter the conditions. As the Rockets prepare to begin arguably the strangest season in franchise history, Houston finds itself in uncertain conditions. Things feel different. The Rockets aren’t riding with the current, they’re fighting against it. There’s no more Daryl Morey, Houston’s GM since 2007, and no more Mike D’Antoni, Head Coach since 2016. Russell Westbrook demanded a trade, and was shipped to Washington D.C. for John Wall, a slight downgrade, but still an All-Star caliber point guard when healthy. New GM Rafael Stone snagged the pick of the off-season, grabbing Christian Wood, poised for a breakout season, in free agency. Stone also picked up a rejuvenated DeMarcus Cousins, who, along with Wall, have shown signs of their former selves in the pre-season. Long gone are the days of small ball in H-Town. The end of 2020 introduces a new style of Rockets basketball to the world, one with a giant elephant in the room. The biggest ongoing topic hitting the news feeds in the NBA is Houston’s superstar’s desire to be traded elsewhere, and the story will continue to make headlines until Harden is dealt, something which can’t help but be an unfortunate distraction for the rest of the squad. It really didn’t feel like the Beard was going to leave until Brodie got his trade demand granted. One can only think James Harden thinks he deserves that, if not, even more power. Hence, he figures he deserves a trade to show he can make waves in the NBA due to his status. But Harden doesn’t know what he wants. His “preferred trade destinations list” grows each day. It’s what it is.

The face of the franchise since he arrived to H-Town in 2012, James Harden, is now the NBA’s biggest diva, partying at strip clubs, flying wherever he pleases, as he continues to hold the Rockets hostage. The Beard is demanding a trade out of Houston. Which is unfortunate, consider the Rockets have the best roster around Harden since he arrived in town. And now, after 8 years, all of sudden, he wants out? Yep. The problem is, Houston can’t find a deal with anything close to the value Harden’s worth. And the Beard’s malicious behavior is only pushing himself away from his own suitors. It’s sad that James doesn’t realize, if he actually wants to win, the best position is right here in Houston. A little over two years ago, the Rockets seemed on the cusp of an NBA title. Now, they’re a franchise held hostage in the spotlight by one of the league’s biggest stars, who wants anything but to play in Houston anymore. Luckily for the Rockets, they have the Beard under contract for two more seasons. Harden can complain all he wants, but Houston doesn’t have to comply to any demands. The NBA is a players’ league. Superstars have a lot of power, but the Rockets have leverage here. Unless Harden starts really behaving like a miscreant, Houston should be able to hold ship, until a relevant, acceptable deal comes to the table.

As for the rest of the Rockets, P.J. Tucker, Eric Gordon, Danuel House Jr., Ben McLemore, and Chris Clemons return, along with Harden (for now), from last year’s squad. I have an eerie feeling, Tucker, unhappy, and rightfully so, due to not being given a contract extension, is going wherever James goes. Tucker is Harden’s closest teammate, and has been since he arrived in Houston in 2017. The two are frequently seen entering the arena together, and have strong chemistry and rapport on the court. To lose Harden is one thing, but Tucker as well, that really stings. P.J.’s now 35, and won’t have many years left in the league. It would be nice to see him finish his career in Houston, but that looks uncertain at the moment. Tucker has more than earned an extension with the Rockets. It’s ridiculous the team won’t give him an extension. I guarantee Tucker’s unhappiness is one of many factors persuading Harden’s choice to demand a trade elsewhere. For now, the Rockets will have to find a way to use Harden, and the power he wields, as best they can. He may be destructive in the locker-room, but the Beard loves to hoop. It’s hard imagining Harden being less than impressive, at least on offense, this season. Expect the Beard to look apathetic on defense, something Houston will hope to change as the season moves on. This year, instead of the usual 82-game regular season, each team will play 72 times. Which means each game is more important. And there won’t be fans at most arenas, but no bubble exists. We’ve already seen repercussions from that, as the Rockets’ season opener on Wednesday was postponed, due to Houston not being able to suit up the minimum requirement of eight players. The Rockets experienced a small outbreak of Covid-19, stemming from a barber at rookie K.J. Martin’s residence. Chris Clemons, unfortunately suffered a torn-ACL in the pre-season, and will miss the entire year, only leaving the Rockets with a thinner roster.

It’s hard to tell, at this moment, what changes the virus will have on the NBA this season, and how many more games are postponed. Houston’s opener likely won’t be the only game that encounters these circumstances this season. It’s something every team has to deal with, but with a player behaving like a modern-day “Worm” (aka Dennis Rodman), Harden only puts the Rockets in more jeopardy. It’s clear he hasn’t cared to listen to the NBA’s protocols for this season. Is it part of his ploy to get shipped out of H-Town? We’ll find out once the season starts. One would think John Wall and Harden would form one of the league’s best backcourts. And along with a revitalized DeMarcus Cousins, and a budding player on the cusp of being a star, Christian Wood, this Rockets team has potential to do serious damage. Even without Harden on the court, should he choose not to play, or when that day comes, Houston has enough to win without the Beard. After being one of the older teams the past few years, the Rockets have a nice mix of youth and veterans on the roster. Former Kentucky Wildcats, number one picks, and All-Stars John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins, when healthy, are enough to push Houston into the playoffs. In a perfect world, the Rockets play well enough to convince Harden to stay. But who knows what the Beard wants. It seems as if, he’s mentally checked out. The regular season will be telling, especially early. It shouldn’t take long to find out if Harden is going to ride ship with the squad, or if Houston will have a nutcase on their hands all season. If the Beard becomes a distraction, one that impacts their performance as a team on the court, he needs to be traded as soon as possible. Can Harden and Houston kiss and make-up? Or will the Rockets continue to be held hostage by one of the league’s biggest superstars? We’ll find out soon enough. New Head Coach Stephen Silas has said all the right things, but he’s got a lot to manage on his plate as he prepares to begin his first season as an NBA Head Coach. The long-time NBA-assistant coach, is well-versed in the game, and seems to get along and empower his players to listen. If only Harden would buy in. But at this point, he seems to have made up his decision… it’s what it is.

Upside Down:  Houston Rockets 2020 Off-Season Review

Fall of Insanity.    Cleaning House Up Top.    Changing of the Guard.

“Hope is a mistake. If you can’t fix what’s broken, you’ll go insane.” A line from the epic film Mad Max: Fury Road. One that infilitrates the mind when pondering the insanity that’s been the Houston Rockets 2020 furious road of an off-season. In the most transformative break in franchise history, owner Tilman Fertitta, slowly burning the franchise into the ground, implemented huge changes into the future of the squad. The top of management has been turned upside down, producing ripple effects into the playing squad. General Manager Daryl Morey was fired. Not a surprise, that was inevitable since his Hong Kong tweet in October 2019. Head Coach Mike D’Antoni wasn’t fired, but left on his own accord. And so, the Rockets two most important pieces that aren’t players are gone. Rookies now occupy the most crucial non-playing positions in the franchise. Raphael Stone is now Houston’s GM, with the Rockets giving the Head Coaching nod to Stephen Silas. And while the team has yet to play a game, with all the chaos these two new additions have had to deal with since replacing Morey and D’Antoni, they’ve done as good a job as one could ask for, keeping a sloppy, shaky, bullet-ridden Aston Martin on its last legs, still driving, but not in great shape. It’s not their fault this Rocket-ride could be on its last legs. They simply came into the most chaotic situation an NBA franchise has faced in an off-season since I can remember. First came the departure of D’Antoni, then Morey… But it wasn’t until Houston’s superstars wanted out, that this ship began looking more likely to sink than swim this season.

First, it was reported that superstars Russell Westbrook, and James Harden, the face of the franchise since he arrived in 2012, were on board with new hire Stephen Silas as Head Coach. Then reports came about their frustrations on the outlook of the team’s future. Then, the trade demands. Russell Westbrook demanded a trade first. And made it clear, according to inside sources, he was not going to be a positive presence if his demands weren’t met. Apparently Westbrook, aka “Brodie” wasn’t happy with his role throughout much of the season, and the pairing of him and Harden wasn’t as easy as fans imagined it could be. Hence, Brodie was traded to the Washington Wizards for John Wall, another All-Star point guard, although a downgrade from the durable Westbrook. Wall missed the entire previous season due to injuries, but has shown promise of his former-self in the pre-season. Still, a Westbrook-for-Wall swap is a loss for the Rockets. No offense to Wall, but Brodie is the better player. And Houston lost out on one of the league’s unique players, in Westbrook. And as now’s evident, not a lot of superstars get along with James Harden. First it was reported the Beard preferred to play with Wall over Westbrook, and play surfaced of off-season pickup games involving the pair during the fall break. Now, Harden is the NBA’s biggest diva, and he’s got an entire franchise hostage. Despite Houston getting Wall, Harden still wants out of town. What the Beard doesn’t realize, is Wall might be one of the few superstars left willing to play with a player like Harden, who’s usage rate is amongst the highest in the league. First it was Chris Paul, then Russell Westbrook, the frustrating thing is, James hasn’t even given Wall a chance. With the right mindset, they could turn out to be the NBA’s best backcourt. Hopefully they get along as well as possible this season, and Harden isn’t too much of a distraction for a Houston roster with plenty of potential.

So… the Beard wants out, but Harden’s under-contract for two more seasons. The Rockets have no obligation to trade the Beard. No matter now many strip clubs he attends. No matter how many times he’s late. No matter how many teams (it’s increased from two to six) Harden adds to his preferred trade destination list. Houston can wait for as long as possible to get the best deals possible for a former-MVP, and still one of the top ten players in the world. They’ll never get equal value on a deal for the Beard, but the Rockets can be patient, and make the right move. Instead of playing into Harden’s tricks, and giving what he wants. Offers have been on the table, but the Rockets would be throwing away potentially saving the franchise if they settle too early. It’s a shame too, because Stone’s done an incredible job since being promoted to GM. And Silas has said all the right things and looks like the perfect guy to being given the keys to save this car from driving off the edge. The problem is Harden. Houston snagged the steal of the off-season, getting Christian Wood, who scored 23 points in his lone pre-season game, and looks like the perfect-fit, alongside a player of Harden’s style. Add in a rejuvenated and healthy John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins, and these Rockets have the best roster in the Harden-era. But he wants out. James thinks he can win somewhere else. The problem he doesn’t realize is, all his antics and Dennis Rodman-like behavior is only driving suitors away from trading for his services. Harden’s best bet is to play his rear off this season, and see how it goes. If he buys in, the Rockets are certainly a playoff team. That may not change Harden’s demands, but right now, Houston doesn’t have any other options. Maybe the right deal will come along. The Rockets are still engaging in talks with many teams, but a deal for a player of Harden’s caliber is tricky to pull off. Stone and Houston need to be patient, the right deal will come along, or, hope, in a dreamer’s world, Harden gets his act together, and the Rockets are better than ever. But that’s highly unlikely. The Beard is only acting more like a prima-donna with each passing day.

The face, or Beard, of the franchise, since 2012, Harden gutted it out in Houston as superstars moved from city to city. It looked like the Beard was poised to be a Rocket for life, but that idea seems more like a dream at this moment. Be grateful for each day Harden’s a Rocket. Sure, he’s acting like an immature 12-year old at the moment, but the Beard’s accomplished a lot since arriving in Houston in 2012. The Rockets are the only team to make the playoffs every season since 2012. While not winning the ultimate chip, Harden’s consistently had the Rockets among the top of the West’s cutthroat elite for years, and their 2018 team was the closest to knocking off Kevin Durant’s Warriors dynasty. The Beard is the reason Houston has been relevant in the NBA for the past decade. But now, he wants out. The Rockets can hope to change his mind if they get off to a great start, and Harden realizes his best chance to win is actually right here, in Houston. The squad can hope Wall and Cousins stay healthy. Both former number one picks and All-Stars have looked re-energized in the pre-season. Christian Wood looked like the second-coming of Kevin Durant meets Kristaps Porzingis, and has realistic potential to win the Sixth Man of the Year Award, or even get All-Star potential if Wood really reaches his ceiling. These are all hopeful ideals Houston can pray for, but the reality is, the clock’s ticking on Harden. The Rockets have to trade the Beard. I hate to admit it, as much as I hope they can hold onto Harden, and somehow convince him to stay in Houston. He’s gone. His body might be in H-Town, but his mind is elsewhere. And it’s probably for the best Harden leaves town. Unless the regular season produces unexpected positive changes in the Beard’s behavior, it’s only a matter of when, not if, Harden is traded. Houston will know soon enough into the regular season, if they don’t know already, if Harden is going to buy-in and try and win games, or just lazily jog up-and-down the court. Is James going to exhibit his power as a star who can do whatever he wants, and play hard when he wants, and make sure it’s seen on full display? Can the Rockets tolerate the Beard’s nonchalant approach to the game for an an entire year? We’re about to find out. I’d say have hope Harden stays. But hope lies elsewhere amongst this Houston roster. Just not with their superstar anymore. Don’t go looking. You might go insane.

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.