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Rockets Hold Off Pelicans, 126-123, Claim First Win

Past and Present Magic.    Danuel’s House.    Searching for Rhythm.

A win’s a win. Goes the old cliche. On Saturday night, the Rockets got their first win of the young season, hanging on to fend off the Pelicans, 126-123. It wasn’t the prettiest victory, but right now, they’ll get a win any way possible. A win’s a win. New Orleans stayed with Houston for most of the night. The Rockets even trailed by 3 after 3 quarters. Brandon Ingram led the way with 35 points and 15 boards for the Pelicans. But Russell Westbrook’s play in the final frame secured the victory. Houston started the quarter on an 8-0 run, and Russ took over late going 4 for 7 from the field in the fourth. Westbrook finished with 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 13 assists. The 139th triple-double of his career, passing the legendary Magic Johnson on the all-time list. A feat no one expected when Westbrook entered the league over a decade ago, back in 2007. If Westbrook wants to be dominant on this Rockets team, he needs to be more efficient and improve his decision-making. You could say the same for his partner in crime, James Harden.

The Beard almost blew the game with a late turnover that resulted in a New Orleans dunk that cut the lead to one point. Houston survived and got the win, but if they want to compete against the NBA’s elite, they’ll need smarter plays down the stretch from Harden. James finished with 29 points, but went 2-for18 from three, on a terrible shooting night. It’s still early in the season. Harden and Westbrook even said it would take time. It’s inevitable that growing pains will occur. Houston can only hope they don’t linger for too long. The good news for the Rockets: the rest of the squad looks ready to prove why Houston’s roster is arguably the deepest the league has to offer.

Danuel House Jr. has been Houston’s most efficient player so far this season. Time will tell if Mike D’Antoni’s decision to insert House with the starting unit was the right move. Regardless, House looks as comfortable as ever as a Rocket, in his first full season with team. Elsewhere, Eric Gordon still needs regain his shooting rhythm. Splash Gordon connected on only 2 of 9 shots from deep. House, meanwhile, finished with 15 points, on 4 of 5 shooting from beyond the arc. P.J. Tucker had 16 points to go along with the usual hustle he brings on every play. Clint Capela chipped in with 15 points and 7 boards. Houston just needs their start backcourt to get in sync with House and co. It might take a little time, but once everyone shakes off the rust, the Rockets will be a tough out any night. 

Up next, the Rockets have a reunion of sorts. It won’t be an easy contest. Russell Westbrook faces the only team he ever knew before donning Rocket red, the Oklahoma City Thunder. It will be weird to see a familiar face wearing Oklahoma City’s uniform. Chris Paul returns to town, intent on seeking revenge against his former team. Houston will try to prevent that, as Episode 3 of the Beard and Brodie Era continues on Monday night. And if the Rockets can get the victory, don’t expect to hear, “a win’s a win,” afterward. The next game’s personal.

Rockets Aim to Rebound Against Pelicans

All Due Respect.    Everything.    Number One.

“All due respect, you got no f*****g idea what it’s like to be Number One. Every decision you make affects every facet of every other f*****g thing. It’s too much to deal with almost. And in the end you’re completely alone with it all,” Tony Soprano says near the end of HBO’s legendary series. A man with the ego and vanity comparable to that of James Harden and Russell Westbrook. If Houston’s superstar backcourt can’t learn to coexist, the Rockets have no chance of being the league’s number one team. Harden could score 50 points in every game until he retired. Westbrook could get a triple-double in every game for the rest of his career. It wouldn’t matter. If Houston’s superstar backcourt can’t bring the city a title, they’ll never be remembered like the greatest players of all time. Anyone can score in this league. But to be number one? In this league? That’s too much to deal with for most players. Winning championships doesn’t mean something… it means everything. And for the majority of guys in the league, everything is just too much to deal with. The good news for the Rockets is Harden and Westbrook have known each other for years, and their argument gone viral late in Thursday’s loss is likely just a necessary exchange between heated competitors, trying to get on the same page during their first game. Or, at least that’s what it had to be. If Houston has any change of reigning supreme as the NBA’s number one team, Harden and Westbrook have to profit from each other on the court. They have to realize what’s at stake. They owe it to themselves. All due respect, but it’s not every year you get a legitimate shot to win it all. In this league those chances are few and far between. If Brodie and the Beard can’t merge their styles of play into a winning formula, they’ll be all alone at the end of their careers. All those individual stats and accolades attached to their names… with no jewelry to show for it. Just ask the legends who once took the hardwood: in the end, the numbers don’t matter… it’s all about the rings. It’s a long season, but the Rockets’ superstar duo needs to realize their shared goal, and focus on winning.

After their collapse in game number one to the Bucks, Houston looks to get in the win column against the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday night. The team with the number one pick in the draft is no joke, despite their 0-2 record. New Orleans’ first two losses came in nail-biters that went down the stretch. Zion Williamson, the highly touted Pelicans phenom who went number one in the NBA draft, won’t be playing tonight. Zion is expected to miss 6-8 weeks with an injury he suffered in the preseason. New Orleans still poses a formidable test for the Rockets. This is a game Houston needs to win, in order to shoot expectations back into gear. The Pelicans boast many former assets from the Anthony Davis deal. Lonzo Ball and Josh Hart have been solid role pieces for New Orleans. Brandon Ingram has been exceptional in the early start, blossoming into his potential as an All-Star. Jrue Holiday is still arguably the Pelicans best player, running the point. The Rockets defense will focus on Ingram and Holiday, but New Orleans has had five players in double figures in each of their games this season. The Pelicans pose an all-around threat. If Houston returns to the unfortunate habit of playing down to their competition, the Rockets could be in trouble tonight. Luckily for Houston, the Rockets are the more rested team tonight. New Orleans lost a close game in Dallas on Friday night. Rest shouldn’t matter anyways. This Houston team is too talented and motivated to drop their first two games at home this season.

Despite their previous loss to the Bucks, the Rockets had a 16-point lead at halftime, and looked poised for a great win over one of the East’s best. The Rockets collapsed, but it’s the first game in a new era. And it’s not like Houston hosted the NBA’s bottom feeders. Give the Bucks credit. They’re a really good team. They’ll be playing into late-May. They rallied and gutted out a victory on the road (despite some very questionable late calls). Still, it’s no excuse for letting a 16-point lead slip away. Especially considering that last year’s MVP fouled out before crunch time. Hopefully the Rockets have learned from Thursday night’s letdown, and will bounce back against the Pelicans on Saturday night. It’s time that Houston fans see the Rockets perform to their potential. Each NBA season is an epic journey for the league’s contenders. Starting tonight, Houston can get their own journey back on trajectory. And show the league why they’re a title threat. They can handle the pressure… it’s not too much to deal with. It’s time the Rockets put Houston on the map as contenders for the league’s ultimate title: number one.

 

Toyota Center:  Houston, Texas

 

Jersey Colors:

New Orleans Pelicans (0-2):  Red

Houston Rockets (0-1):  White

 

TV:  7:00 PM CT – AT&T Sportsnet SW

Opening Fright:  Rockets Collapse in 2nd Half, Fall to Bucks in Opener, 117-111

Half Measures.    Interior Invasion.    Speeding Up.

“The moral of the story is… I chose a half measure, when I should have gone all the way. I’ll never make that mistake again. No more half measures.” It’s one of the better quotes from the greatest TV show of all time, Breaking Bad. I couldn’t help but think about it after Houston’s opening night loss. The Rockets sure chose a half measure on Saturday night. Everything looked bright and optimistic. Houston held a 16-point lead at halftime, and led by 9 entering the fourth quarter. Giannis even fouled out before crunch time. But in the end, none of it mattered. Milwaukee rallied down the stretch, en route to handing the Rockets a 117-111 opening night defeat. Houston put up brick after brick when it mattered most down the stretch. More concerning, the Rockets had no defensive presence in the paint. Houston allowed layup after layup, as their interior defense appears to be one of the squad’s glaring weaknesses they’ll need to address moving forward. Milwaukee invaded the paint seemingly at will, with Houston having no answers for their attack on the rim. Unfortunately, the Rockets also had a problem giving up big leads last season. They need to buck this trend quickly, or like last year, Houston will find themselves in an early-season hole.

In his first game as a Rocket, Russell Westbrook had a fine game for the stat books. Brodie finished with 24 points, 16 rebounds, and 7 dimes. As expected, his shot selection was questionable at times. However, the Rockets scored as many fast-break points on Thursday (27) as they did in any game last year. Westbrook certainly makes Houston speed up the pace, something essential for Mike D’Antoni’s offense to function at its highest level. James Harden had a quiet opening night. The Beard finished with 19 points, but on a torrid 2-of-13 shooting from the field. Harden also had  14 assists, and 7 boards, but was slowed by some very questionable offensive fouls late in the game. The Beard was called for charging three times late in the game. The egregious calls affected Harden’s aggressiveness. It’s rare to see the Beard take less than 15 shots in a game. It’s just not in his nature. Harden and Westbrook had a heated conversation late in the loss. Houston’s superstar backcourt needs to realize it’s not a one man show. Brodie and the Beard should be past the days of only caring about stats. All the points and triple-doubles in the world can’t buy you a championship. Not in this league. It takes teamwork. Milwaukee showed that down the stretch. The Bucks closed the game without the reigning MVP. The Greek Freak still finished with a triple-double consisting of 30 points, 13 boards, and 11 assists.

The pace of play helped P.J. Tucker get open for looks, who was the most efficient shooter for Houston against Milwaukee. Tucker finished with 17 points, and went 5-of-8 from long range. Clint Capela finished with a double-double, garnering 13 points and 12 boards. However, the big man didn’t see enough playing time down the stretch, and needs to get back into playing shape. Eric Gordon also needs to get back to splashing threes. EG had a terrible shooting night on Thursday. Gordon had the most shot attempts on the team, but went only 4-of-19 from the field. EG also boasted the lowest plus/minus on the entire squad. Houston was outscored by 22 points when Gordon was on the court. Maybe a change to the starting lineup for EG will get him back in rhythm, but it’s too early in the season to make that switch. Plus, Daniel House was solid as a starter, and fills the role nicely. One thing’s for certain: it’s still early, but like time, the season goes by fast. If the Rockets don’t address these issues prominently, they’ll be in for another slow start to the season. Luckily for Houston, the competition isn’t as fierce in their next matchup. The New Orleans Pelicans come to Houston on Saturday night. The division rivals will be without the league’s number one pick and rookie phenom Zion Williamson, who’s out with an injury. However, the Pelicans still have plenty of young pieces, and New Orleans is coming off two close losses. Expect the Pelicans to be hungry for a win. The Rockets can’t afford any more half measures.

Rockets Open Season Against Bucks, Look to Start a New Era

It All Begins…    Take it Back.    Pretenders.

A new age in Houston Rockets basketball begins on Thursday night. The squad has new jerseys, a new-look logo, and a new superstar to pair with the Beard. The Rockets start their 2019/2020 season with the highest of expectations. Not only is it the most anticipated Rockets season in memory, it’s the most anticipated season in NBA history, due to all the free agency movement this past summer. One positive Houston has: stability. This is essentially the same team from last season. Except Houston replaced Chris Paul with another superstar point guard. Albeit a younger, healthier superstar, one still in his prime… Russell Westbrook. Yes, there will be a few growing pains. The same cynics are out there who said Chris Paul and James Harden couldn’t share the ball before they paired up. If it weren’t for injuries, Chris Paul might still be a Rocket, with a ring. Look for Westbrook to seamlessly fit into Mike D’Antoni’s system by the time the playoffs begin. Signs of growing pains are sure to be seen in Westbrook’s first game as a Rocket, but Harden and Westbrook have history together that should ease any chemistry issues that arise. More importantly, both are more motivated than ever with the same goal in mind: an NBA Championship. Harden and Westbrook remain the best two ringless players in the league. That can all start to change on Thursday night, as they begin the long journey towards the playoffs and (hopefully) the NBA Finals. And so the era begins tonight, as the Rockets play host to one of the beasts from the East, the Milwaukee Bucks. 

James Harden should be licking his chops as the last season’s MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo, comes into Harden’s House for Game 1 of the regular season. Any NBA fan that has any actual knowledge and intellect knows Harden was the real MVP last season, but got snubbed by voters once again. Both players had tremendous seasons, but Harden carried the banged-up Rockets last season.  Meanwhile, the Bucks had the Coach of the Year, an All-Star besides the Greek Freak, and a healthier squad throughout the season. The Beard can begin his revenge tour tonight, by showing the national public who the real MVP is this season. Despite the addition of Westbrook, Harden’s improvement with each season puts him on the verge of another historical season, and another MVP at year’s end, in my opinion. Harden has looked like he’s in midseason form, even causally dropping 44 points during one of Houston’s preseason games. Look for the Beard to get off to a fast start to the 2019/2020 campaign.

Many people are picking the Bucks to win the East. They won the most games in the conference last season, but that’s in the past. Milwaukee parted ways with point guard Malcolm Brogdon, one of the most underrated and overlooked players in the NBA right now. Brogdon already shined in his debut for the Indiana Pacers, with 22 points and 11 assists. Look for the Bucks to severely miss his absence. Milwaukee will still be a playoff team and a threat in the East, but Brogdon is a piece that takes teams over the top. Without Brogdon, the Bucks won’t finish above the Philadelphia 76ers or the Indiana Pacers out East. The Rockets can expose the Bucks as pretenders with an opening night victory, but it’s not going to be a cakewalk. Milwaukee were one of the only teams to go undefeated against Houston last season. The Bucks play great defense, and have plethora of shooters on the perimeter to help Giannis on offense. Milwaukee, also rebounds the ball well, as the Lopez brothers (Brook, Robin) do damage inside, as well as on the perimeter. The Rockets need to close out on open shooters and crash the boards to ensure they get an opening night win. The Russell Westbrook Era begins. Rockets basketball is officially back. And this season promises to be… one for the ages.

Toyota Center:  Houston, Texas

Jersey Colors:

Milwaukee Bucks (0-0): Black

Houston Rockets (0-0): Red

TV: 7:00 PM CT – TNT

The Rocketssey:  2019/2020 Houston Rockets Season Preview

Open Season.    Mirror Images.    Kings of LA.   

“Is it just me, or is it getting crazier out there?”, Arthur Fleck asks in Joker, the year’s most controversial film. One that made me think of the current NBA landscape: absolute craziness. The Free Agency period, the China tweet, unforeseen league parity. This year marks the most anticipated season in the James Harden era of Houston Rockets basketball. Why? In what turned out to be the craziest offseason in NBA history, the Houston Rockets made arguably the most controversial move: snagging Russell Westbrook from the Oklahoma City Thunder. Tonight, the squad begins their 53rd season in franchise history, embarking on their third mission to win a title. And with the addition of Westbrook, the Rockets have their best chance to win it all since the title days of the mid-90’s. It’s Open Season in the NBA this year. A title’s up for grabs. And for the first time in what seems like forever, there is no clear-cut favorite. No dynasty trying to repeat. Only fresh faces in new places… eager to compete.

The Toronto Raptors lifted the trophy back in June. October’s finally here, and the NBA’s seen a vast amount of change. Comparable to a summer game of musical chairs, many of the league’s stars moved to different locales. During a crazy offseason, the league underwent the most roster changes in NBA history, and saw 72% of eligible free agents switch teams. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George teamed up with the Clippers. Anthony Davis joined LeBron and the Lakers. Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving aligned with the Nets in Brooklyn. Kemba Walker travelled up to Boston to fill Kyrie’s void for the Celtics. Jimmy Butler cruised down to South Beach, for a new start with the Heat. And, the Rockets traded Chris Paul and his behemoth of a contract, for Russell Westbrook. Power balanced near the top, leaving promise for the pretenders whose time will come. By adding Westbrook, the Rockets are in position to overrun the “favorites” in LA for the title.

Unlike the Clippers or Lakers, the core of Houston’s roster has been together for the past few playoff runs. P.J. Tucker, Clint Capela, Eric Gordon, Danuel House Jr., Austin Rivers, Nene, Gary Clark, and Isaiah Hartenstein are all returning for the Rockets, along with James Harden of course. Unfortunately, Gerald Green is expected to miss the entirety of the season with a broken foot. The Green Light’s absence will be a blow to the second unit, but shouldn’t derail the Rockets from their championship expectations. New additions for Houston include the return of Ryan Anderson and new signees Tyson Chandler, Thabo Sefolosha, Ben McLemore, Michael Frazier, and Chris Clemons. The Rockets were unable to resign Kenneth Faried, but Chandler’s presence in the frontcourt should help fill that void. Chandler and Sefolosha are savvy veterans who bring even more grit and experience to Houston’s roster. And then there’s Russell Westbrook.

The Rockets are getting a former MVP, and legitimate superstar who’s in the midst of his prime. A player whose motivated himself since high school with the mantra of “why not?” Westbrook is coming off his third straight season averaging a triple-double. Russ brings an unparalleled energy level to the floor the Rockets sorely need. Houston boasts one of the league’s oldest rosters, but the squad’s familiarity with each other gives them an advantage over teams that have to adjust to new pieces and build chemistry. Russell will take some time fitting in to Coach Mike D’Antoni’s “the 3 is the key” offense. However, Harden and Westbrook, childhood friends from Los Angeles, have plenty of history together. In Oklahoma City they took the Thunder to the Finals with Kevin Durant. Now teammates in Houston, the Beard and Brodie aren’t the players they were in OKC, they’re even better. Harden and Westbrook’s bond make the Rockets one of the best bets to win the championship this year, in what’s lined up to be the NBA’s Season of Duos. LeBron and AD with the Lakers. Kawhi and PG with the Clippers. Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid in Philly. Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis in Dallas. So, what makes Harden and Westbrook different? Everything.

“One thing I have learned is that you and I are opposites, but also just the same. Like an image in a mirror. We hate people. And they in turn hate us. And fear us.” I couldn’t help but think of Harden and Westbrook when hearing this quote from Peaky Blinders, the British show that’s evolving into a phenomenon. James Harden and Russell Westbrook, so similar yet so different, have slowly evolved into phenomenons in front of our eyes. Mirror images, or not? Both grew up in LA, and both weren’t highly scouted in high school, unlike many of today’s NBA superstars. Each overcame adversity to get to this point. Harden was just supposed to be a role player with a beard. Now he’s evolved into arguably the best offensive player basketball’s ever seen with the Beard. The thought of a player pulling an Oscar Robertson (averaging a triple-double in a season) in this era was unthinkable, until Westbrook accomplished that very feat… for the past three seasons. The Beard and Brodie are the league’s most eclectic pair of fashionistas. Both are known for entering arenas with creative outfits, many times outlandish, but always innovative and unique, like their style of play on the floor.

At age 30, both are genuine superstars in their prime. Both have been isolation dominant players (look for this to change slightly this season). However similar their styles of play, the Beard and Brodie bring different tangibles of force to be reckoned with. Harden, a creative offensive juggernaut and free throw assailant, has mastered the art of “getting any shot at any time” that he wants. Westbrook, a relentless triple-double machine, plays every single game like it’s his last. Russell is arguably the hardest playing professional in the league (along with P.J. Tucker). The kind of guy who irritates you in a pickup game by taking it too seriously, when you’re just trying to play around. Westbrook doesn’t play around. His exerted energetic force should fit comparably with Harden’s more laconic, hypnotizing style of play. Where Harden is more patient, Westbrook is more aggressive, in terms of overall play. You don’t accidentally average a triple-double for three seasons in a row. Only a heightened level of talent, energy, and effort can accomplish what Westbrook has done the past three years.

Despite all this, the Rockets superstar pair seems to inspire more hostility than any other superstars in the league. Performing feats others cannot evokes feelings of jealousy, and hatred. James Harden’s ability to score at will, misinterpreted as someone who cheats the game by his creative ability to draw fouls. Russell Westbrook’s ability to get a triple-double seemingly every game, only to be seen as “stat-padding”, and not the result of extraordinary effort. You don’t have to like Harden and Westbrook. The league’s best duo will elicit fear out of their opponents, and hate out of their opponent’s fans. You’re welcome to get on the Hate Bandwagon. It will only fuel Houston’s superstars toward reaching that elusive title that seems closer than ever this season.

With Harden and Westbrook, the Rockets now have two of the past three MVP’s on the same roster. Something that will elicit jealousy across the league, once the two really start gelling on the court. Houston’s been knocked out of the playoffs by the Golden State Warriors four out of the past five years. However, this Warriors dynasty, has finally come to an end. Kevin Durant jettisoned to the Brooklyn Nets. Klay Thompson will miss the entire season. Valuable, veteran role pieces like Andre Iguodala and Shaun Livingston have parted ways. As a result, Golden State is no longer the biggest threat for Houston.

All the talk this offseason has been about the Lakers and Clippers in Los Angeles. Both teams will be improved, but Houston’s PHEC (PJ Tucker, Harden, Eric Gordon, Clint Capela) core has been together the longest of any Championship contender entering this season. Harden and Westbrook’s past experience playing together will shorten Russell’s adjustment period fitting into Coach Mike D’Antoni’s system. The only real title threat out East are the Sixers. Malcolm Brogan’s departure from Milwaukee will drop them out of contention. Look for the Pacers to be sleepers in the East, but Philly has more talent and experience for a Finals run. If the Rockets want to get back to the Finals for the first time since 1995, it won’t be easy, but it’s more than a possibility.

The Western Conference is better than ever, from top to bottom. Utah, Portland, Denver (all rising teams in the West) improved this offseason, along with the Battle for Los Angeles. A poll was released taken by NBA GM’s on who they expected to win the NBA title. The Clippers and Lakers had the most votes. And while the Battle for LA might determine something, maybe a renewed rivalry by the Hollywood franchises, don’t expect it to determine an NBA Champion. Anthony Davis cannot make it through a full season healthy, and LeBron James is finally starting to show signs that he’s human. The Clippers will be the Rockets biggest threat to the crown, and the only team I see with a chance to beat Houston in a playoff series. Harden and Westbrook, the real kings of LA, have reunited down south in Texas. The best two players in the league without a ring. The hungriest of all duos. If they can stay healthy, look for Houston’s new superstar backcourt to deliver the Rockets a third championship in franchise history. Don’t ask why. As Westbrook would say, ask… why not?

When the Houston Rockets acquired Russell Westbrook during the off-season, the team bolstered their offense. Westbrook brings forth a commitment and attitude to the game that is unmatched. His willingness to play basketball is in uncharted terrain. Joining forces once again with James Harden, the Rockets might finally have their true two-superstar duo. 

Acquiring Westbrook was a great move by the front office. The Rockets needed a solid player to come in and help Harden. Losing Chris Paul hurt, but Westbrook will compensate for that void. There was a hint that Westbrook wanted out of Oklahoma City throughout last season… it just took the right negotiation to strike a deal. Both Westbrook and Harden played alongside each other in Oklahoma City years back. Now reunited, the Rockets new-look backcourt can finally seize advantage of the ruthless Western Conference. A conference that has seen the Golden State Warriors dominate for years, but their reign may finally be over. Kevin Durant moved on to Brooklyn. LeBron James and Anthony Davis could make noise with the Lakers. However, the Clippers might boost the biggest threat to Houston out West. The Clippers arguably won the offseason, keeping their core intact, while adding superstars Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. The playoff race out West could very well come down to the Rockets and Clippers. 

Both teams are uniquely talented. In the Rockets’ case, Westbrook and Harden are going to be one of the best duos in the league. This Rockets team is on a mission, and has been, to win a championship. To get there, both Westbrook and Harden are going to have to share the ball. That’s something we saw with Harden and Chris Paul, although the Rockets didn’t make it to the NBA Finals. If this team is going reach that peak, the two stars have to share the ball and include the entire team in the offense. 

The Rockets aren’t only a two-player team. Guys like Eric Gordon, Clint Capela, and P.J. Tucker will get their fair share of the ball. Tucker has become one of the best defenders in the league. However, Harden and Westbrook know what it’s going to take for this to work. Houston brought in Carmelo Anthony last season and we know how that ended up. However, the vibe for Westbrook and Harden is really high. This team is only expected to win around 57-58 games this season. If the two can create a bond on the court and truly work together, this team can make a run to the title. Here’s to the 2019-2020 season. It’s basketball time in H-Town. 

– Brandon Eisenman

Season Over: Rockets Lose in Familiar Fashion, Championship Window Closes

Season Over.    Window: Closed.    Time to Move On.

 

The Rockets lost another game in familiar fashion, and another game  they should have won.  A team can only give so many chances to a Championship-team like the Warriors.  Houston’s championship window is closed for James Harden and Chris Paul, as the front office have no idea what they’re doing.  They could hire me, and I guarantee Houston would win a title within three years.  But nowadays, with analytics, and measures imposed upon the elite by society, people don’t want to take risks, or have open minds, that could change the world.  I’ve been writing for free all season long.  I have more content than any pampered, paid, sportswriter who uses stats to fuel his/her content.  But, frankly, I’m burnt out.  I could continue, for Houston, or any team, but frankly, if no one cares about my writing, I’m done.  For all of you who have read, I cannot thank you enough.  God Bless, and prayers for your favorite team.

 

Sincerely,

Alex P

The Enemy Comes to H-Town, Rockets Fight for Their Lives Against Warriors in Game 6

 

Deadly Motivation.    Stopping the System.    Win or Stay Home.    

 

            “You’re eyes can deceive you. Don’t trust them,” Obi-Wan Kenobi tells Luke Skywalker early on in the Star Wars saga. It’s an old adage the Houston Rockets need to take to heart as fight to live another day. The Rockets they battle for their season tonight in Game 6 against the Warriors at Toyota Center. A Warriors team that now lacks their “best player,” Kevin Durant, who will miss the remainder of the series. Houston let another golden opportunity slip away in Game 5, but the season’s not over. The Rockets beat Golden State twice in a row earlier this series, and they can certainly do it again. If the Rockets let any more golden opportunities slip, they’ll be going on vacation sooner than expected. But first, Houston has to get past Game 6. And adjust to a Golden State team, minus KD. Granted, Kevin Durant is a superstar, and arguably one of the best players in the world… but in the Warriors system, is he really the best player?

As much as I hate to admit, the man who started this whole dynasty thing in Oakland, and along with James Harden, revolutionized the perimeter game, is Stephen Curry. And don’t forget Golden State still has Klay Thompson, who regained his rhythm in Game 5, and the most-motivated version of Draymond Green. There’s also Hamptons Five constant Andre Iguodala, the versatile vet who’s been along since the pre-Durant ride. The core that brought the Warriors a title, and then an NBA-record 73 wins the next season. It’s still there. And that “Golden State doesn’t have a bench” thing is false. It’s not the best second unit, but before Durant got injured, their bench consisted of: Iggy, Andrew Bogut, Shaun Livingston, Jordan Bell, Jonas Jerebko, and Quinn Cook. In the playoffs, rotations get shorter. Golden State’s stars have logged heavy minutes, however, the Warriors have enough veterans and guys on their bench who will do what it takes to win. Iggy, Bogut, and Livingston may be washed-up, but they’re smart, and talented enough to win Golden State at least one of the remaining two games. Houston has to be ready for the pre-Durant Warriors. Golden State is better without Durant. A glance at the numbers will show that the Warriors, Durant or not, are still an elite Championship-caliber team.

After winning a record-73 games, Golden State won 58 last season, and 57 this season. A trend that will continue spiraling downward, if Durant doesn’t leave during free agency. In their last 27 games, Golden State is 26-1 when Curry plays, and Durant doesn’t. It’s not a surprise. What you saw in the fourth quarter of Game 5 wasn’t a surprise. For some reason, Steph Curry becomes unleashed, and plays like his old-self when Durant is not playing. Part of it’s the fact he touches the ball more, but part of it is mental. If you think, the saintly Steph Curry isn’t the slightest bit salty about not being “the man” in Golden State anymore, then you have no idea about NBA superstar egos. And, as it pains me to say this, Curry happens to be one of the most unselfish superstars of all. The biggest Houston has to counter with KD out is dealing with, not only how Kevin Durant forced the Warriors into an isolation-heavy offense, but how Golden State in the fourth quarter, with the game on the line, relied on this style of play more than ever. And every single game in this series has been close. The largest margin of victory has been six points, a mere two possessions.

The Rockets need to be ready for a faster Warriors team that uses ball movement to get more possessions on offense. Curry and Thompson, are relieved. Durant’s isolation countered the Splash Brothers shooting rhythm, and resulted in the Warriors going for two points more than three. A style that wouldn’t beat the Rockets last year, until Chris Paul went down. But, no one, absolutely no one, is more relieved than Draymond Green. It’s no secret the two All-Stars personalities clash, and they cannot STAND one another. The feud between the teammates has torn Golden State’s chemistry apart, and resulted in Durant, and possibly others, seeking to leave the Bay. Houston needs to realize, that Golden State chemistry that won them a title and 73 games, is coming right back at them in Game 6. The Rockets are about to face a Warriors team with nothing to lose (knowing they still have a potential Game 7 in Oracle). And a the defending champs are not more motivated than ever before to prove they don’t need Kevin Durant to win a title. Green had his best game of the series last game. P.J. Tucker and the Rockets need to win the hustle-war, or their season could be over.

Win or stay home. That’s become the reality for Houston, as Golden State can play more freely tonight, knowing they don’t have to win this game. When the Warriors play freely, it often results in disaster for the opponent. More ball movement, less pressure, more fun. Houston can’t let Golden State regain that spirit of joy that was contagious throughout the organization, before the Durant-era. For the Rockets, it’s all about wanting it more. It sounds simple. But, that’s all it comes down to. Hustling, exerting every effort on every play to get to every lose ball. Houston has to be everywhere, if they want to be in Oakland for a deciding Game 7 on Sunday. James Harden had a quiet fourth quarter in Game 5. He has a chance to redeem himself, and show the world why the Beard is still the NBA’s MVP.

These next two games, will define the legacies for Harden, and the aging Chris Paul. Everyone sees it. CP3 isn’t quite the same as last year’s version. In fact, he’s a step, or three, slow. Houston has to pray they can get a little more out of CP3. Hopefully, Golden State’s depth will play a factor, and their guards will play even more minutes. If they’re tired, Paul has a chance. He’s not terrible (well, last game was the worst of his postseason career). Expect CP3 to bounce back at home with his best game of the series. And look to for James Harden to be in complete attack mode. With no Durant (Golden State’s best shot blocker), Harden will have ample opportunities to get to the rim. And with the Beard’s full offensive arsenal, there’s no reason for Harden not to drop at least 40 points against this version of Golden State. The only Warrior who could give the MVP trouble, was Klay Thompson. At this point in the series, Thompson’s gassed. As great as a Harden is from deep, if the three isn’t falling, the Beard needs to attack the basket and look for layups or open threes for Eric Gordon and P.J. Tucker. Even more crucial, Harden needs to attack to try and find Clint Capela for those signature lobs that were a frequent part of Houston’s offense before this series. Capela has seemed to disappear from the face of the Earth in this series. He’s being outplayed by the inferior Kevon Looney, and Clint looks like he wants to get rid of the ball every time it touches him. Hopefully, the Rockets All-Star backcourt can get Capela’s confidence back up, as he’s been a complete non-factor in this series.

Houston is 5-0 at home in the playoffs. There’s no reason they shouldn’t win tonight’s game and force a winner-take-all Game 7. The Rockets can’t revert to their worst habit of the regular season: playing down to their competition. Houston lost too many games too count against inferior opponents this season. If the Rockets think beating the Warriors without Kevin Durant is going to be a cakewalk, they’re sorely mistaken. Houston needs to be ready, and focus on playing Rocket basketball. Getting to what got them here. The play of Harden, and Gordon. Tucker’s hustle, energy, and grit. Bench contributions from Austin Rivers and more. Most importantly, Houston needs to adjust according to Golden State’s attempted knockout punches. As silly as it sounds, the Rockets can’t afford to watch what they’re saying on TV, as the sports world believes the Warriors are better without Kevin Durant. Tread lightly Rockets. You’re eyes can deceive you. Don’t trust them.

 

Toyota Center:  Houston Texas

 

Jersey Colors:

Golden State Warriors (3-2):  Blue

Houston Rockets (2-3):  “Earned” Crimson Red

 

TV:  8:00 PM CT – ESPN

 

 

Choke City Returns:  Rockets Blow Golden Opportunity, Lose Game 5, 104-99, as Warriors Regain Mojo, Series Control

 

Curse in Disguise.    Closing the Window.    What If?

 

If the Rockets go on to lose this series, Game 5 will haunt Houston for decades. This was the game, Houston needed to win, and they couldn’t pull it out. The most bizarre, grueling NBA series in recent memory got even stranger on Wednesday night. Golden State lost Kevin Durant to injury, yet held off Houston for a 104-99 Game 5 win, and a 3-2 series lead. After trailing by as many as 20 points, the Rockets rallied (with Durant on the floor). Once Durant suffered the injury, Houston had a complete mental lapse. The Rockets reverted to their worst habit, playing down to their competition, and blew a golden opportunity to take a control of the series.

Clint Capela can’t even seem to hold the ball against Golden State. Kevon Looney has outplayed Clint by a long-shot. I repeat, Kevon. Looney. If that’s going to happen, Houston doesn’t stand much of a chance, no matter what the refs decide to call or not call. No matter who’s injured, or healthy. The Rockets center, looks scared, and one can only hope Kenneth Faried, and Nene get more minutes. At first look, one might think the Warriors are worse without Kevin Durant. Look closer. And one can see the injury bug haunting the Rockets, only this time from the other side. Durant’s injury is a major curse in disguise for Houston. Golden State is 29-4 without Kevin Durant since he joined the team. The Warriors’ win total has decreased each season since acquiring KD, and Durant has obviously caused problems for the team’s chemistry in the locker room. Now, Golden State can go back to being the old Warriors. That’s bad news for Houston. The Rockets were able to lure Golden State into an isolation-heavy style of play with Durant on the floor. Without KD, the Warriors move the ball, and Steph Curry seems to play incrementally better with Durant off the floor. Before the injury, Klay Thompson rediscovered his rhythm. Both Splash Brothers will see more looks the rest of this series. The Rockets have to pray their shots don’t fall, or this series could be over as soon as Friday.

Chris Paul had the worst playoff game of his career. CP3 looked like he aged an additional five years overnight. Paul looked three steps to slow, and couldn’t get around anyone to save his life. Eric Gordon and P.J. Tucker will need to pick up the slack if the Rockets want any chance of saving their season. James Harden was quiet in the fourth, attempting only one shot in the final five minutes. Another inexplicable event that’s shaped this peculiar series.

There can be only so many what ifs? What if Kevin Durant doesn’t get injured? Personally, I think Houston wins if Durant doesn’t go down. Houston lost complete focus once regaining the lead, and knowing Durant was out. The Rockets were only down seven, when Durant went down. After grabbing a two-point lead with 9 minutes in the fourth, Houston exhaled, and let their foot off the gas like they’d won the game. Only problem was, it wasn’t over, and despite another egregious missed call late by officials, the Warriors seemed to return to their old selves. Firing past the Rockets, to take control of the game, and possibly the series. What if the officials called it fair in Game 1? What if Harden doesn’t get slashed in Game 2? What if Nene or Faried got more playing time instead of sticking with the inept Capela (who can’t seem to play against the Warriors)? Golden States is a matchup nightmare for Capela, and the Warriors make him look a 12^th man.

At this point, Houston might even be better served testing out Danuel House, who’s cleared to play but hasn’t recently due to coach’s decision. Nonetheless, something has to change. The Rockets attitude, desire, will. They’ve got to want it more. At this point, Houston can win the series. But, they’re going to have to play the hardest they’ve played all season. And that still might not even be enough. If the Rockets win Game 6, they still have to win a Game 7 on the road, against a revitalized Golden State team that seemed to regain their form and chemistry in the span of five minutes. Rebounding killed the Rockets before Durant went out, and Houston mentally phoned it in once Durant limped off.

On the bright side, the Rockets are 7-10 in elimination games. However, both of their Title runs in 94 and 95 featured comebacks from 3-2 deficits. It is possible. Nothing’s set in stone, yet. And, strangely enough, one only has to look at last season to get a glimpse in the mirror of what could be. Chris Paul went down in Game 5 last season after Houston won Game 5 to take a 3-2 series lead. It would be the Rockets last win of the season, as Golden State came back and beat the Rockets sans-CP3 in the final two games. Houston needs to repay the favor to their arch-nemesis, as they play without Durant. The only problem is, what few seem to notice, the Warriors never needed Durant. They’re better without him. And Houston needs to find a way to beat the old Warriors who have fun playing basketball. Because, that’s exactly what happened in Game 5: Golden State regained its mojo, specifically the Splash Brothers, who can shoot opponents out of a game in minutes.   And the Warriors got what they most desired, proving the world they don’t need Kevin Durant to win.   The Rockets are going to need two back-to-back epic team performances to prove them wrong.

The NBA’s strangest series continues on Friday night. Houston will fight for its season in Game 6. The series is far from over… or could be a wrap come Saturday. James Harden, Chris Paul, they’ve worked their entire careers towards this point. The window is closing, and after this season, the way CP3 is playing, will be closed after this year. This is Houston’s one final shot to win a championship. And to do it, they’re going to have to come together and run as one. No more excuses. Scott Foster waits in the shadows for a potential Game 7. First, the Rockets need to take care of business at home in Game 6. And hope Mother’s Day will bring celebrations of glory, instead of haunted reminders of what could have been.

 

 

 

 

The Battle Continues:  Rockets, Warriors Face Off in Pivotal Game 5

 

Full Circle.    Closing Oracle.    Smelling Blood.

 

         “Torment in the dark was the danger I feared, and it did not hold me back”, a quote from The Lord of the Rings brings Game 5’s pivotal showdown between Houston and Golden State into perspective. On Wednesday night, the Rockets and Warriors will duke it out in the Bay, as the stakes become raised with each passing game, and the series moves closer to the inevitable finish. The series is tied at two games apiece, with the home team victorious in each matchup. Houston is trying to become the first team in this series to win on the road. And possibly say goodbye to Oracle Arena, for good. The Warriors are moving closer to the San Francisco area next season, making this possibly the final game at “Roaracle.” That’s if Houston can beat Golden State tonight, and finish them off in Game 6 back home. It’s a pretty big if, but this is a special Houston team. If anyone can accomplish the seemingly impossible task of beating the Warriors four times in a row in the playoffs, it’s this Houston Rockets squad.   Today also happens to be Rockets’ Coach Mike D’Antoni’s 68^th birthday. D’Antoni is 3-0 in the playoffs on his birthday. Chris Paul’s birthday was on Game 4, and Houston gutted out a win. They’ll look to do the same for their coach tonight in Game 5. D’Antoni’s been brilliant all season, and gets nowhere near the credit he deserves managing this Rockets roster.

After four games, Houston and Golden State are deadlocked in a 2-2 tie. Before the series, if you would have told me it’d be tied going into Game 5, I wouldn’t be surprised. However, the journey into tonight’s slugfest between the NBA’s best teams has it’s own share (fair, or not) of surprises. No one saw the officiating fiasco coming in Game 1. No one saw James Harden getting slashed in the eye in Game 2, becoming the trademark of this series. The Rockets trailed 0-2, facing the steep uphill climb of beating Golden State’s Goliath four out of five games. Many pundits expected the Rockets to lose a game in Houston. Well, their expectations where put to rest. After four close games and a swing in momentum, Houston is halfway there. Two wins away from the goal they’ve worked towards five years and counting: beating the Warriors. Even before Kevin Durant arrived, many argued Golden State was the most talented team ever assembled in NBA history. Now it’s not even a question. And the Rockets find themselves a mere two wins away from pulling off the upset of the century. The question is, can the Rockets finally pull through on the road? Each game’s gone to the home team in this series, a series that’s finally living up to the hype. Houston has to win in Oracle at least once (tonight, or in a potential Game 7), to win the series. Winning a Game 7 on the road is about as tough as it gets in the NBA. Doing it in Oracle Arena against this Warriors team is a scary proposition. To avoid that situation, tonight the Rockets need to be ready to blast off from the opening tip.

Houston finally has Golden State’s full-attention. Other than Durant, the Warriors have performed at subpar levels. Expect them to be much better at home, with the light at the tunnel getting closer (for both teams). It won’t be easy, but the Rockets were the only team to beat the Warriors twice in Oracle during the regular season. Harden and company must continue to play with P.J. Tucker’s contagious force, effort, and desire to win. Tucker continues to excel, and is playing the best basketball of his life at age 34. That says a lot about Tucker’s heart, and passion for the game. Most players are over-the-hill, or retired by 34. Not the “Sneaker King”. Tucker’s playing like he’s in his prime, and without it, this series isn’t tied, and the Rockets would be looking elimination in the eyes tonight. Instead, we’ve come full circle, back to a tied series. And Houston rolls into Oakland smelling blood, with a chance to put Golden State on the ropes.

The Warriors have never been more vulnerable in the Kevin Durant-era than they are right now. Free agency talk has surrounded the team all season, and with the offseason looming, the talk and rumors are only intensifying. Klay Thompson, who stated in the past that he wants to be a lifelong Warrior, now says he’s unhappy with his role. Thompson is sick of getting the “crumbs” from Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry. It’s not incomprehensible. Thompson guards the opposing team’s best player night-in, night-out, as Durant and Curry get all the credit for Golden State’s success. And he’s hasn’t said a peep. Until now. Thompson’s actions have always spoken louder than words. Klay doesn’t look like himself on the court. Thompson seems to have a lot on his mind. It was recently revealed that the Warriors went to a screening of Avengers: Endgame as a team. Klay Thompson walked out on his own, two hours into the three- hour film, saying he was bored by the movie. It’s commonplace for NBA teams to bond over dinners and movies, especially on the road. What’s not commonplace is Klay Thompson walking out on his team. Sure, it’s just a movie, and the event has no effect on the outcome of this series. Nonetheless, bad chemistry has been brewing in Golden State’s locker room for months now. The copious, daily rumors of Kevin Durant resurrecting the Knicks after this season have no doubt affected Golden State’s chemistry, which was seemingly perfect, two seasons ago, before KD arrived in town. Draymond Green’s antics have reached an all-new high of annoyance. But, Thompson was a player who always sacrificed his role for the betterment of the team. And now, sick of being know as the “other” splash brother, he wants out.

The Rockets need to seize this moment. Tonight’s game is there for the taking. Houston is at full-strength, riding the momentum from back-to-back wins. Draymond slashed Harden in the eyes in Game 2, and everyone expected the Beard’s performance to decrease. Harden’s game didn’t take a step-back… instead, the MVP drained more of his patented step-back threes. And got the Rockets back in the series with a pair of solid performances, along with help from Eric Gordon, Tucker, and Austin Rivers. It’s time for Chris Paul, Clint Capela, and the rest of Houston to make their presence felt in Game 5. Tonight will be the loudest crowd the Rockets have faced all season. Oracle Arena will be rocking with fans heckling Harden and his team. Golden State hasn’t had a great game collectively yet in the series. They’re due for one tonight. Houston has to be ready to withstand some early Warriors punches. Both teams understand what’s at stake in Game 5. Historically, in 2-2 series, teams that win Game 5 go on to win the series 82 percent of the time, with a record of 168-36. Whoever wins tonight, has the upper hand in the rest of the series. The Rockets don’t want to play a Game 7 on the road, much less in Oracle Arena. No team does, that’s a nightmare scenario.

Houston needs to win Game 5, and close out the series in Game 6 back home. Rockets fans’ were worried when Harden suffered the injury to his eyes. Houston trailed 0-2, and seemed lost in the dark as just another Warriors victim in Golden State’s dynastic run. It might have been a little darker, and harder to see for Harden. But if you think the Beard was scared after the first two games, you haven’t watched the MVP play. Harden, thrives in Oracle Arena. Bring the noise, Oakland. Torment Harden as you wish… but don’t expect it to hold him back.

 

Oracle Arena:  Oakland, California

 

Jersey Colors:

Houston Rockets (2-2):  Black

Golden State Warriors (2-2):  White

 

TV:  9:30 PM CT – TNT