Category: Uncategorized

Rockets Return Home, Face Hornets, Go For 9 Wins in a Row

 

Home Cookin’.    Fun Meters.    Not Too Far.

 

         The Rockets are buzzing and having fun again. Coming off their 8^th straight win, a grind-out defensive victory over Dallas, Houston returns home for their next 4 games. On Monday night, the Rockets host the Charlotte Hornets. Houston hasn’t lost at home since February 9^th, when they gave up a 26-point lead to the Thunder. The Rockets have a great chance to keep moving up the standings. They’re only 4 games out of the 1-seed, Golden State, who they play on Wednesday. The Rockets are only 3 games behind the second seed, Denver, who they play in a few weeks in Houston. This is the third game in 4 nights for the Rockets. If the squad can fight tired legs, they should be able to pull out the victory over an inferior Hornets-squad. Charlotte has lost 8 of 11, but still remain only a game out of the eighth seed in the East. Starting tonight, Houston has an opportunity to cook some more wins together during this home-stretch portion of the schedule.

A lot of factors can measure how well a team is playing. One of the key factors for Houston is the vastly important Eric Gordon Fun Meter. Earlier in the season when Houston was struggling Gordon said, “I’m just not having fun anymore.” Oh, how things can change throughout an NBA season. Gordon got off to a slow start to the campaign. However, Mike D’Antoni tinkered with the lineup, and EG’s efficiency has risen since being swapped into the starting group. Gordon is currently playing his best ball of the season. His shooting is a major reason the Rockets currently own the NBA’s longest winning streak. And why, EG, and the Rockets, are having plenty of fun nights. When Splash Gordon’s having fun making it rain from deep, Houston’s nearly impossible to beat. Gordon is the third guy besides Harden and Paul, who can create his own shot, and for others, offensively. EG also is one of the most underrated players defensively in the entire league. Night-in and night-out he can be seen overcoming defensive challenges. When the rest of the squad is playing defense like Gordon, Tucker, and Paul, the Rockets are a scary team to try and beat.

Houston can’t overlook the Hornets. We all know who waits on the horizon. The Warriors. Houston’s final regular-season matchup against Golden State is on Wednesday. They can’t look too far ahead. The Rockets need to focus on Monday night, and a Charlotte team coming in that has the talent to be a threat to Houston. First-time All-Star, Kemba Walker, one the most underrated players in the league, can have explosive nights offensively. The Hornets play hard, and if Houston comes out lacking focus, the Rockets’ winning streak may come to an unfortunate end, against another inferior opponent. It’s been two and half weeks since Houston last lost. The Rockets can’t afford to fall to any more teams they’re expected to beat. Houston should be able to muster up enough energy to quiet Charlotte’s buzz, and push the winning-streak to 9 games. As long as they find Eric Gordon on offense, it should be a fun night.

 

Toyota Center:  Houston, Texas

 

Jersey Colors:

Charlotte Hornets (30-36):  Black

Houston Rockets (41-25):  Red

 

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

Paul Wall: CP3’s Block Seals Rockets’ Win Over Mavs, 94-93

 

CPD.    Grind a Way.    Holding On.

 

Houston survived to win a nail-biter in Dallas on Sunday night, 94-93. It wasn’t pretty, but the victory gives the Rockets a season-high 8 in a row. Chris Paul had a game-saving block as time-expired on Jalen Brunson to preserve the victory. CP3 only had 9 points, but he dished out 9 dimes, and his defense was stellar in the clutch. Paul’s been struggling with his shot, shooting 5 for 29 from the field over his past 3 games. Yet, as in tonight, Paul’s still having an impact, and helping Houston find ways to win. Brunson had a good look, but Paul made sure it had no chance of going in. Despite his shooting slump, the Point God’s passing and defense has been spectacular (as it’s been his entire career). CP3 passed Isiah Thomas among the NBA’s All-Time Assists Leaders, moving into the number 7 spot on the list. Paul’s passing and ability to control the pace have been the major forces fueling the Rockets’ winning streak. Harden and Paul combined to shoot an ugly 9 for 36 from the field. Houston’s offense crashed on a night the defense and hustle grinded out the victory.

James Harden had arguable one of his worst games of the season. The Beard’s 28-point game streak was snapped. Harden finished with only 20 points, particularly due to foul trouble. He picked up his fifth foul early in the second half, which led to an extended period of the Beard bench-warming. The Rockets still managed to grind out the victory. P.J. Tucker was spectacular on the defensive end, guarding Luka Doncic for most of the night. Clint Capela had a solid game inside with 17 points and 12 rebounds. However, the Rockets biggest source of shooting fuel came from Eric Gordon, who picked up the slack on offense with Harden in foul trouble. EG finished with 26 points on 10 of 20 from the field, as his late season resurgence continues for Houston. When Gordon is playing well, the Rockets are nearly unbeatable. There’s a reason his hot-streak and Houston’s have coincided at the same time.

The Rockets held on to win in a game that was closer than expected on Sunday night. Houston led by 9 entering the final frame, and almost surrendered another fourth quarter-lead. Shots may not be falling, but the squad’s defense has vastly improved. It’s the reason the Rockets won in Dallas. They had a torrid shooting night as a team, but grinded out the victory on defense. Houston has now held their last 3 opponents under 100 points. That 3-game mark is an impressive feat in today’s NBA, where it’s not unusual to see 120 or more on the scoreboard many nights. The Rockets are still holding onto the 3-seed in the West. The 2-seed, and even the 1-seed, with Golden State’s embarrassing loss to Phoenix, is still in reach for Houston. They Rockets were lucky to escape Dallas with a victory. They return home on an 8-game winning streak, and face the Charlotte Hornets tomorrow night. It’s the third game in 4 nights for Houston. They’ll try and survive against a pesky Hornets team, fighting for their playoff lives.

 

Rockets Zoom Into Dallas, Face Dirk’s Mavs One Last Time

 

Game-Changers.    Fairwell, Frenemy.    Past, Present, Future.

 

Game-changers. Jordan. Magic. Bird. Wilt. Certain players are synonymous with their impact on the game of basketball. To an extent to where they become even bigger than the game itself. If your franchise gets a game-changing player, consider yourself lucky. They are few and far between. However, the Rockets and Mavericks are  both fortunate enough to boast game-changing players. As one of Houston’s greatest rivals, I despise the Mavericks. On Sunday night, the Rockets travel to Dallas, a city they’ve been time and time again. To battle a Mavs team they’ve faced frequently over the years, and will see plenty of again in the future. Except this time, it’s feels different. Yes, Houston is rolling, going for 8 straight wins. The Rockets are playing atmospheric basketball, especially on defense. But, tonight marks the last time Houston faces Dirk Nowitzki.

Legend is an over-used word. Not in Dirk’s case. This man started basketball’s revolution of big men launching threes and kicking Dirty-Dirk step-backs. The German Race Car pioneered the European evolution of the game. And now, 21 years later, at age 40, he’s on his final lap. Dirk might not be as fast or effective as the showstopper he once was, but as a player and person, Nowitzki’s influence on the NBA cannot be overstated, nor dismissed. It would be remiss not to recognize the impact Dirk’s had on the game. Some players truly change the game for the better. Without Dirk, basketball wouldn’t be the same.

Since 1998, he’s been a thorn in Houston’s side. There are too many painful Rocket-memories involving Dirk-Destruction. But, Nowitzki made the game a better place. Sports need true, valiant competitors like Dirk. Even though the Rockets won’t miss having to face Dirk, the game will miss his face a lot more. I’m glad the days of Dirk wrecking destruction on Houston in the playoffs is over. But, part of me grieves what the game is losing. The NBA won’t be the same. Despite losing Dirk, Dallas got lucky again, of course. Well, they were smart. The Mavs traded for All-Star Kristaps Porzingis, but it’s what Dallas did before the season that was more impactful. They drafted Luka Doncic, the best rookie in this year’s class. The Slovenian sensation has the poise and potential to be a future game-changing talent in this league.

Houston is the hottest team in basketball. The Rockets look to even the season series in their final Dallas duel this season. Houston can’t take their foot off the gas. They’re only 3 games from claiming the second seed out West. Dallas is tougher at home, as opposed to the road. Dallas is a woeful 6-27 on the road but the Mavs are 21-11 at home, and a much more formidable opponent in American Airlines Center. However, Dallas has lost 4 straight and looks to be focusing on the race for Zion. Look for the Rockets to win their 8^th straight game, and defeat Dirk in their final matchup. The Mavs are a team with a bright future, but they won’t be able to stop the NBA’s hottest team tonight. James Harden won’t let that happen. He’s a modern-day game-changer.

 

American Airlines Center:  Dallas, Texas

 

Jersey Colors:

Houston Rockets (40-25):  White

Dallas Mavericks (27-38):  Black

 

TV:  6 PM CT – AT&T Sportsnet SW

Clamp City:  Surging Rockets Shake Off Sixers, 107-91

 

Lift-Off.    Streaking Streak-busters.    Watch the Game.

 

A month into the season, the Houston Rockets were left for dead.  An early-season hangover led to an 11-14 start. But, you know what they say, it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish.  The Rockets finished off the 76ers with little resistance, 107-91, on Friday night.  Other than Tobias Harris, no one was much of a factor for Philadelphia.  James Harden led the way for Houston as he’s done all season.  The Beard shook off a hard fall to his wrist and had 31 points, 10 boards, and 7 dimes.  Eric Gordon, who’s really starting to find his rhythm, finished with 17 points, and Gerald Green chipped in with 14 on the scoreboard. Clint Capela is rounding back into pre-injury form.  Capela finished with 18 points and 9 boards for the night.  The Rockets have lifted off and are playing out of this world.

Houston’s now in the midst of their longest winning-streak of the season, 7 games, while playing their best basketball of the year.  The game also marked Harden’s 40^th consecutive night with at least 28 points, second in NBA history.  Entering the contest, Philly had the NBA’s longest-active streak scoring at least 100 points, at 28. Houston’s defense ended that streak on Friday night, as Houston had another dominant defensive performance.

P.J. Tucker set the example on defense, from the start.  Tucker drew 2 charges on Amir Johnson, and forced the Sixers into foul-trouble early.  The NBA’s Hustle King continues to play with energy and grit that is worthy of recognition.  Chris Paul noticed.  In postgame comments, Paul said on Tucker, “there’s no question Tuck should be all defense… watch the game and you’ll see his value.”  The Sneaker King’s value has been contagious.  After the game, Coach Mike D’Antoni said Tucker is like “the glue of everything.”  The Rockets as a team have vastly improved on the defensive end since intermission. Before the break, Houston was ranked 25^th in defensive rating.  During this winning-streak, the Rockets’ defensive rating has been 8^th in the league.  Houston’s even held 2 of the top 10 scoring teams in the NBA (Toronto and Philly) to under 100 points.

Since the All-Star break, Houston is 7-1.  Now, they find themselves in sole possession of the 3 seed in the West.  The Rockets are even in striking distance of Denver for the 2 seed.  A scenario that seemed like an afterthought, only weeks ago.  In about a month, the playoffs will get under way.  Who’s the biggest threat to the Warriors throne?  Denver’s held onto the 2-seed all season.  They’ve got a shot.  Many think Oklahoma City or Portland has the best chance.  Well, in case you haven’t noticed, the Rockets are back.  And if you don’t think they’ll be the ones battling Golden State in May, put down your phone.  And watch the game.

 

 

  

Unbrotherly Love:  Rockets Seek Seventh Straight Win, Sixers Come to Town

 

Trust the Progress.    Board Battle.    Moving Forward.

 

“It ain’t about how hard you hit, it’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.”  The iconic line from Rocky, filmed in Philadelphia, hits home when looking at the Rockets this season.  On Friday night, Houston hosts Philadelphia at Toyota Center.  The Rockets aim to get their seventh straight win tonight.  Houston’s seemed to turn a corner at this point in the season.  James Harden, Chris Paul and co. have figured something out.  The Rockets always knew they’d be fine.  It’s been a rocky season.  They’ve been hit hard.  Injuries.  New teammates.  Blown leads after blown leads.  But Mike D’Antoni, Harden, and Paul were confident all along.  After starting 11-14, Houston has gone 28-11, the best record in the West.  The Rockets can only trust that their roster will stay healthy.  It’s the ultimate key to Houston progressing towards their goal of the title.  They’ll see if they can keep that progress going against a Sixers team that’ll be without Joel Embiid.

The All-Star was a huge part of Philly’s win in the previous matchup.  Clint Capela didn’t play in that game for Houston.  But he’ll he be manning the paint tonight.  The last game between these teams was especially chippy.  Embiid had a lot to do with that.  Still, the Rockets are looking to get revenge on a Sixers team that beat them handily weeks ago.  Kenneth Faried remains out for Houston, along with Iman Shumpert.  Embiid is always a matchup issue for the Rockets.  His absence is an open invitation to take care of the one of the better teams in the East.  Look for Clint Capela to have a monster game tonight.  The Sixers have lost 2 of 3 games, and are coming off a nail-biting loss to lowly Chicago.  Philly still has plenty of talent in Ben Simmons (questionable for tonight), Jimmy Butler, and Tobias Harris.  J.J. Reddick also seems to never miss when playing Houston.  The rebounding battle is vastly important in this game.  Houston is 62-8 since last season when outrebounding their opponent.  They’ve got a better opportunity than ever with Embiid sidelined due to injury.

Who thought we’d be here?  The Rockets, going for their 7^th straight win.  A streak that’s included wins over some of the NBA’s elite (Warriors, Raptors, Celtics).  It seems like it was only days ago people were questioning if Houston would even make the playoffs.  Now, everyone wants to get on the bandwagon.  The Rockets are rolling.  Turns out, all those injuries, roster turnover, and early season adversity, wasn’t a good thing.  It was a great thing.  Last season, Houston strolled through the regular season like it was a cakewalk.  And yes, they probably would have won, had Chris Paul been healthy.  But last year’s Rockets team didn’t get hit much at all in the regular season.  They say whatever doesn’t kill you, only makes you stronger.  In basketball, adversity makes the best teams stronger.   Champions manage adversity, and use it to their advantage.  When the Rockets got hit by the Warriors last year, they ultimately couldn’t deliver the final blow.  They were shell-shocked.  They hadn’t experienced how dire sequences of a season can pull a team together.  On and off the court.  This Rockets team is a closer-knit unit than any team before, despite the new faces.  Houston’s adversity has paid off this season.  They were hit hard with injuries, but playing time and new roles opened up, creating a deeper roster for the Rockets in the playoffs.  Most importantly, this squad is the toughest Rockets team I’ve ever witnessed.  Tonight, the Rockets might get hit hard throughout the game.  They could go down early, or blow a Rocket-style lead.  But they’ll hit back, this group’s learned from their mistakes.  The playoffs are shaping up to be one of the most intriguing postseasons in NBA history.  The West is, of course, loaded.  The East is a battle of four top-heavy teams.  But in reality, we all know who the two best teams are.  They’ll meet again.  And when they do… this time, Houston can take a hard hit.  They’ve got their own Hardened Warrior to keep them moving forward.

 

Toyota Center:  Houston, Texas

 

Jersey Colors:

Philadelphia 76ers (41-24):  White

Houston Rockets (39-25):  Black

 

TV:  7 PM CT – ESPN & ATT Sportsnet SW

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rockets Tame Raptors for 6^th Straight Win, 107-95

 

Defensive Demolition.    Bench Relief.    We the South.

        

         It was quiet.  Well, quieter than usual in Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday night.  The Rockets rolled into Toronto, and stormed out with their sixth win a row, 107-95.  Houston pounced on the Raptors early.  The squad had one of their best defensive games of the entire season.  The Rockets gave up a mere 37 points in the first half, and got out to a 22-point lead in the second quarter.  However, the Raptors made sure there wouldn’t be a thrashing in Toronto.  They stormed back to take the lead in the 3^rd quarter, but Houston counterpunched.  The Rockets bench was outstanding, despite missing Kenneth Faried and Iman Shumpert to injuries.  James Harden led the way with 35 points and Gerald Green hit several clutch shots en route to 18 points.  The Green Light ejected life into Houston when they trailed Toronto entering the fourth.

Green hit consecutive three-pointers, and the Rockets never really looked back.  The Raptors kept it close for part of the final frame, but Harden proved yet again, why he’s the MVP.  The Beard had 19 of his 35 points in the fourth, and exhibited his floater with more frequency.  Just another deadly asset Harden’s added to his game.  One that was on full display on drives to the bucket Tuesday night.  Clint Capela was a monster on the glass, grabbing 15 boards for the Rockets.  Chris Paul had another distributive performance, dishing out 10 assists.  Houston is so lethal with Paul directing the offense.  Since he joined the team, the Rockets are 28-1 when CP3 has 10 or more assists in a game.  When Paul, Harden, and Capela all play together, the Rockets are 62-12 since last season, plus 11-3 in the playoffs.  Even further proof of how important Paul’s health is to Houston’s success.

Houston’s bench came to play on Tuesday night.  Led by Green’s spark and shooting, the Rockets’ reserves brought energy and defense to round out a solid victory.  Houston’s bench unit combined for a staggering plus/minus of plus-73.  The second unit was on fire, especially Rivers and Green.  The duo combined to shoot 7/11 from downtown, and hit some key shots when the Rockets were thwarting a Raptor-comeback in the second half.  Houston as a team outran the Raptors on the fast-break 23-7.  In similar fashion, the Rockets have made moves in playoff positioning.

All of a sudden, Houston, who was once 14^th in the West, now find themselves holding onto the third seed in the standings.  On Tuesday, the Thunder and Blazers lost, pushing the Rockets up two spots.  All 3 teams sport identical records, but that will soon change.  Portland hosts Oklahoma City on Thursday night, in a showdown between the two teams now chasing Houston for the third seed.  Since their dismal 11-14 start, the Rockets have gone 28-11, best in the West.  The Rockets need to keep focusing on their defensive intensity and communication.  Houston’s heating up, and crowds across the league are beginning to notice.  If the Rockets are playing at an arena near you, and it’s not named Toyota Center, get ready for some peace and quiet.

 

 

 

 

Rockets Look to Find a Way in Jurassic Park, Go For 6 in the Six

 

Jurassic Park.    Load Management.    40 Burgers.

 

“How can we possibly have the slightest idea what to expect?” ponders Alan Grant in 1993’s Jurassic Park.  The innovative blockbuster was released the summer before Houston won their first NBA Championship, and left an indelible mark on the film industry.  The quote refers to the discussion of unknown factors that come into play with bringing dinosaurs back to life.  Well, the NBA’s oldest team, the Houston Rockets, have finally come back to life.  The Rockets are shooting for their sixth win in a row on Tuesday night.  This will be the toughest matchup Houston’s faced since their impressive win to start the streak in Golden State.  Toronto boasts one of the best, and deepest lineups in the league.  The Raptors have won 9 of their last 11 games.  Despite this, they lost on Sunday in overtime, giving Toronto extra motivation for Tuesday night.  They also have Kawhi Leonard.  As Samuel L. Jackson says in Jurassic Park, “hold onto your butts.”

Everyone seems to be in need of some load management these days.  If you’re an NBA fan, you’ve probably heard this term more than thrice.  It’s the league’s fancy, new term for “rest”.  And, last time these two squads faced off, Kawhi Leonard decided not to play.  For, um, load management.  It’s becoming an unfortunate trend.  Players used to play for the love of the game.  Now they need extra rest to prepare for, and try to guard, the most unstoppable player on the planet.  James Harden.  It doesn’t matter how much rest Leonard gets, Harden is a problem for him, and the Raptors.

The last time Houston faced Toronto, they were without Chris Paul.  The Point God is in a different sort of groove.  There’s a reason the Rockets have the NBA’s longest winning streak.  Both Harden and Paul are playing at the top of their games.  Houston is 6-1 since Paul returned from injury.  And now, they’re getting help.  Eric Gordon is coming off one his best games of the year.  When EG is splashing shots from deep, Houston is virtually unbeatable.  The Rockets hope to have Kenneth Faried back in action.  Houston’s energetic “Manimal” has missed the squad’s last two contests.  Against this Raptors deep frontline, the Rockets need Faried’s presence.

Marc Gasol just arrived via trade and has fit in nicely with Toronto.  Jonas Valanciunas, who didn’t play in the previous game in Houston, is back and tends to have his better games against the Rockets.  Serge Ibaka’s excelled in an under-the-radar season for Toronto.  Ex-Rocket Kyle Lowry, running the point, arguably could have been an All-Star this year.  Pascal Siakam is the league’s most-improved player.  That race is over.  The Raptors 46 wins are no illusion.  Toronto is for real.  If the Rockets want to escape Jurassic Park with a win, they might need the Beard to score 40.  Then again, in Houston’s previous game, Harden had 42 points.

The 40-point game.  It used to be a highlight.  Something rare.  Except the Beard’s had more 40-point games this season than most players have in their entire career.  Harden loves his 40 burgers.  They’re not rare anymore for the Beard.  He’s scored 40 or more 24 times this season.  The Rockets are 18-6 when he reaches this mark.  When Harden scores less than 40, Houston is merely average, at 18-17.  His scoring has been so important for the squad.  It will be extremely tough to get 40 against the best perimeter defender in the NBA in Leonard.  If anyone can, it’s Harden.  Is it just a coincidence, or do the Rockets really need Harden to score 40 to be more than just mediocre?  Many of the games he scored less than 40, Houston was still working the kinks out and tinkering with the lineup in the beginning of the season.  Injuries also factor into the equation.  Harden had to score when Paul, Capela, and others were out.  The fact Houston won the vast majority of those games is a testament to his greatness.

The Rockets are playing their best basketball of the season.  Finally, they have a healthy roster.  Currently, the Rockets are performing at a level even higher than last season.  Houston needs to keep playing with focus and intensity on defense if they want to get their sixth straight win.  They go into Jurassic Park, one of the toughest places to play in basketball.  Facing off against the Raptors, one of the beasts of the East.  A team that lost the previous meeting between these teams, and will be out for revenge.  Houston needs to keep playing with focus and intensity on defense if they want to make it 6 wins in a row.  Will the Raps hold home court?  Or will the Rockets keep rolling?  During this crazy season, how can we possibly have the slightest idea what to expect?  Hold onto your butts.

 

Scotiabank Arena:  Toronto, Ontario, Canada

 

Jersey Colors:

Houston Rockets (38-25):  “Earned” Red

Toronto Raptors (46-18):  White

 

TV:  7 PM CT – TNT, ATT Sportsnet SW

Wicked Shootahs:  Rockets Crash Celtics Comeback Party, 115-104

 

Boston D Party.    Back in a Flash.    Moving Up.

 

Not this time.  The Rockets weren’t going to let another lead evaporate.  James Harden and Eric Gordon made sure of that.  Houston’s dynamic duo combined for 74 points, and the Rockets staved off a late Celtic comeback to win their 5^th straight, 115-104.  James Harden had 42 points in another MVP-performance.  Eric Gordon had another spectacular game returning from an injury, and was on fire for stretches, finishing with 32 points.  Houston led by as many as 26 points at one point in the contest.  Boston got back within single-digits, and the Rockets looked as if they might fall back into their nightmarish habit of surrendering leads.  But Harden and Houston made sure the ghosts of games past wouldn’t haunt them in TD Garden.  They held Kyrie Irving in check, holding the All-Star to 24 points, and Houston was the better team from the tip.  It was the first time in a while that the Rockets were in control of the matchup from start to finish.  And it all started with their first quarter defense.  The Rockets held the C’s to only 23 first quarter-points, and gave themselves a 10-point lead after the first frame.  Houston was extremely active in the passing lanes and deflecting passes, which set the tone for their stellar defense the rest of the way.

The victory was one of the Rockets best team-efforts of the season, on both ends of the floor.  James Harden and Eric Gordon combined to equal the amount of points (43) that Boston put up in the first half.  Chris Paul had a quietly efficient game.  The Point God once again controlled the pace and put on display one of his most impressive passing games of the season.  CP3 kept finding EG in the second quarter for three pointers during the period that really helped Houston extend the lead.  P.J. Tucker, as he is every night, was the hustler of the night.  Tucker had some huge defensive and hustle plays late in the game to help the Rockets keep the C’s from making it a contest.  All of a sudden, in what’s seemed like the flip of a switch, the Rockets are back in the contender conversation.

Houston continues to move up in the standings.  They currently sit only 1 game behind Oklahoma City and Portland, who are both tied for the cherished 3 seed.  With 19 games to play, if the Rockets keep playing with this rhythm and confidence, they should have the 3 seed in their grasp.  Houston still even has a shot at the 2 seed, although that’s less likely to happen.  What is likely to happen, is the Rockets continued rise in the standings.  It was only days ago, where some questioned if the Rockets would even make the playoffs.  For those paying attention, the squad has found a rhythm and it’s no secret that they’re in the midst of their longest winning streak of the season.  Houston needs to continue to prepare for the playoffs, despite the injury bug creeping up again.  Kenneth Faried didn’t play today, although his injury is nothing serious.  Iman Shumpert also remains injured and missed the tilt.  Injuries have been the Rockets kryptonite all season, and kept them from winning the title last year.  If Houston can stay healthy, and continue to progress up their ladder for potential as true championship contenders, then Golden State won’t be holding the Larry O’Brien Trophy in June.  Not this time.

Rockets Surge into Boston Looking for 5^th Straight Win

 

Mirror Images.    One Game.    Harden’s Show.  

 

There’s nothing quite like the NBA regular season grind.  82 games.  Consistent travel.  The wicked wear and tear on the body, both mentally and physically.  On Sunday, two teams who’ve seesawed through this season face off.  The Houston Rockets visit Beantown to take on the Boston Celtics this afternoon.  Preseason expectations for both squads were high.  The Rockets were expected to have the best record in the West, up there with Golden State.  Instead, Houston’s had a season full of injuries, with part of the roster imitating a game of musical chairs.  However, things are starting to lookup for the Rockets.  Houston has won their past 4 games, and along with Utah, sport the longest winning streak in the league.  Meanwhile, Boston, with a healthy Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward, were expected to have the best record in the East.  The Celtics have been the most disappointing team in the NBA all season.  A squad that was within one game of the NBA Finals last year can’t seem to find its identity this year.  The team is battling with some serious chemistry issues.  Kyrie Irving changes his mind twice every second.  Uncle Drew also seems to thrive in throwing teammates under the bus with his statements to the media.  Boston has been wavering around the 4/5 seed in the East, all season.  They don’t look poised to move up in the standings.  But don’t be fooled, the Celtics are still one the of NBA’s best.  The Rockets hope a visit to Boston will keep them moving in the right direction.

Houston now finds themselves only one game behind the third seed in the West.  Oklahoma City and Portland are currently tied for third, with the Rockets inching closer with each win.  The playoff landscape continues to shift with each game.  Including today, the Rockets have a tough stretch of games coming up against some of the East’s beasts.  Houston needs Harden at his best to go at least 1-2 during this stretch.  But, he’s been at his best all season.  And with Chris Paul looking ready to go for the playoffs, the Rockets are in great position to make some late-season noise, despite their spot in the standings.  Houston plans to spoil Jayson Tatum’s birthday with a win in Boston, as the Rockets try and extend the NBA’s longest winning streak to 5 games.  Houston will have to deal with their worst enemy.  The injury bug is floating around again.  Gerald Green has strep throat, and Iman Shumpert is still dealing with a typically vague Rockets-injury.  There is good news for Rockets fans.  Eric Gordon and Kenneth Faried are expected to play.  Houston needs EG and the Manimal against this deep Boston lineup.  The Celtics are loaded with threats on the perimeter.  Gordon’s defense and ability to create offense can help tire some Boston wings.  Meanwhile, Faried should be a tough matchup for Horford.  Clint Caplea will be guarding him inside but, unlike many opponents Horford faces, Faried isn’t shy to step out to the perimeter to guard big men.

This afternoon, Houston hopes to escape The Hub with a victory, and avoid any late-game letdowns.  Last season, Houston had one of the worst collapses of the year in Beantown.  Don’t expect that to happen today.  The combination of Chris Paul’s leadership and James Harden’s firepower should be enough to overcome the Celtics.  Paul has looked rejuvenated, despite some struggles in the previous game.  The Point God looks ready to guide Houston to a long postseason run.  The streak may be over, but Harden’s level of play hasn’t diminished.  The Beard is coming off a monster 58-point game.  Harden fueled Houston to a comeback-win in arguably his best performance of the season.  The Beard’s had so many epic performances, it’s hard to keep track of them all.  However, in their previous game, the Rockets needed Harden more than ever.  Down 21 points with a depleted lineup, the Beard had his most MVP-caliber performance of the season, to lead the Rockets to victory.  Houston will be looking to give Harden some help this afternoon, as Gordon and the Manimal are expected back from injuries.  Nonetheless, they’re still facing the Boston Celtics.  One of the beasts of the East.  In the national spotlight.  The Beard hasn’t taken these opportunities for granted this season.  Paul might be the key to the playoffs, but in the grind of an 82-game regular season, it’s Harden’s Show.

 

TD Garden:  Boston, Massachusetts

 

Jersey Colors:

Houston Rockets (37-25):  “Earned” Red

Boston Celtics (38-25):  Black

 

TV:  2:30 PM CT – ABC

 

Harden the Interruption: a Beard Explosion Fuels Rockets’ Comeback to Burn Heat, 121-118

 

Greatness.    Brotherhood Inspiration.    It’s Over, Again.

 

Greatness was witnessed on Thursday night at Toyota Center, on a night that was supposed to be dedicated to a retiring Dwayne Wade.  Houston’s chance to witness the Dwyane Wade Fairwell Tour was quite a show.  The arena was dispersed with Heat #3 jerseys.  A final season that’s seen vintage Wade performances at times (Wednesday’s win over Golden State), and a Heat team mired in mediocrity all year.  No matter the result for Miami, Dwyane Wade usually gets the spotlight.  And he did.  Well, some of it.  Chris Paul and Wade did the traditional jersey-swap.  Something Flash has done after every game throughout his final NBA campaign.  This game however, was about more than exchanging jerseys and hugs.

James Harden took stepped back into the spotlight.  Houston is fighting to get the best possible seed for the playoffs.  For the third time in 4 games, the Rockets fell behind by at least 15 points.  On Thursday night, Houston trailed by as many as 21 in the third quarter.  It looked like another game the Rockets were going to succumb to an inferior opponent.  In Wade’s final game in Houston.  But, Harden, as he’s done time and time again, responded.  The Beard wasn’t going to let a 21-point deficit keep the Rockets down.  Not like this.  The Rockets flipped the script, and this time played the comeback part, rallying to victory.

Harden had another MVP-worthy performance with an astonishing 58 points, including 34 in the 2^nd half, to lead the Rockets to a come from behind victory over the Heat.  Harden’s 58 is the most points scored against the Heat by an opposing player.  He just continues to break records.  The Beard also had 10 assists, 7 rebounds, and 4 steals (for those who say he doesn’t play defense).  Don’t just focus in on the 58 points.  The game was Harden’s most efficient of the season.  The Beard shot 16/32 from the field, including 8/18 from deep.  And he was perfect at the line, going 18/18. Harden also got some brotherly inspiration.  In a bizarre third quarter sequence, P.J. Tucker (who rarely gets tossed), was ejected by Tony Brothers (Scott Foster’s right-hand man).  Apparently, Brothers was offended by the Sneaker King’s footwear.  It only added the fuel to the fire Houston needed to make their comeback.  Harden had 17 in the fourth, and as CP3 struggled, the MVP just would not allow the Rockets to lose.  The Beard’s had many defining MVP performances.  Add Thursday night’s game to the list.

Elsewhere, Gary Clark played his most minutes in ages.  The rookie had 32 minutes of action, and showed why he deserves more playing time.  Houston’s depth has kept him on the bench.  Clark earned more playing time on Thursday.  The rookie had 14 points and 5 rebounds on efficient shooting.  Clark went 5/9 from the field, including 3/7 from beyond the arc.  Hopefully the rookie will see more action.  He’s finally regained his shooting stroke and it’s difficult to keep a rhythm on the bench.  Another Rocket who’s seemed to recapture his shooting stroke, is Austin Rivers.  He provided a spark off the bench, with 17 points for Houston, including some huge threes.  The Rockets clamped down on defense to assist their rally, allowing only 20 points in the fourth quarter.  The win gave Houston 4 in a row, as they now sit only 2 games behind Oklahoma City for the cherished 3 seed.

It’s over, again.  It should be.  And by it, I mean the MVP race.  On the anniversary of last year’s deadly crossover on Wesley Johnson, James Harden had another game to remember.  In another signature MVP performance, Harden dragged the Rockets back from a 21-point second half deficit to give Houston its fourth win in a row.  It was arguably Harden’s defining performance of the season.  Still ailing from a sore shoulder, and with Chris Paul struggling, they trailed by as many as 21-points in the third quarter.  P.J. Tucker got ejected for no reason.  And the depleted Rockets game into the contest with injuries to Eric Gordon, Kenneth Faried, and Iman Shumpert.  Houston had no business winning this game, but the MVP wouldn’t let them lose.  It was the sixth 50-point game for Harden this season, and the third game this season he’s had 50+ points and 10+ assists.  The Beard’s now done that 7 times in his career.  No other player has accomplished that feat more than 3 times in NBA history.  If you still want to complain about Harden, his style of play, or any of the many false narratives floating around, you’re entitled to your opinion.  But go do that in your own time, let the rest of us admire Harden’s greatness.