Rockets Launch Past Thunder in Series Opener, 123-108
Back in a Flash. Houston’s Uncle. Just One Game.
He’s back. That guard for the Rockets who relentlessly attacks the basket with reckless abandon. He’s scored 50-points, and can easily drop 20 any night he wants. He might be overlooked by some. James Harden? No, the Beard’s been here, balling MVP style, getting the usual lack of recognition his legend deserves. Russell Westbrook? Brodie’s still out with a quad injury. No, that guard for Houston who attacks the rack with no regard for human life is Eric Gordon. And Splash Gordon was back in a flash, scoring 21 points as the Rockets had contributions from almost everyone on as they throttled the Thunder, 123-108, in Game 1 for a 1-0 series lead. Harden led the way for the Rockets with 37 points on a stellar 12-for-22 shooting from the floor, and snagged 11 boards. But, Eric Gordon stepped in for Russell Westbrook, and made Brodie-like efforts. EG looked incredible. With consistent, strong, and quick and impressive drives to the rim, Flash Gordon is back. Splash Gordon is still struggling to find his rhythm from long range, but his relentless energy and isolation ability was on full display on Tuesday night.
Along with EG, several Rockets continued to find their stride in Game 1. Ben McLemore returned to form from distance, shooting 4-for-7 from deep, for 14 points. Benny Mac continues to be Houston’s most lethal perimeter threat. And if you don’t know by now, meet Houston’s new uncle, Jeff Green. “Uncle Jeff” continues to be the second-half surprise of the season for the Rockets, and maybe the entire league. Green looked revitalized once again, scoring 22 points on 8-of-12 shooting off the Rockets bench. Uncle Jeff also had 6 rebounds and 4 assists, and contributed on the defensive end. Houston swarmed OKC relentlessly in Game 1. The Rockets defensive intensity was impressive, especially their movement on switches and active hands. Houston completely put the Thunder out of their rhythm. The action on defense has to be a theme for the Rockets if they want to go all the way.
It’s just one game, Houston can’t afford to get complacent after winning a game as the “underdogs” in Game 1. I don’t think they’re the the underdogs, even without Brodie. But if the Rockets retreat to their regular season trend of becoming too comfortable after leading in certain situations. Westbrook is rumored to return this weekend, but no one really knows but Russ. And he might not even know. Houston has to continue to play like a hornets nest defense and hope their shots continue to fall. If they can weather Brodie’s early absence, the Rockets will one to be reckoned with when he’s back.