Game 4: Rockets vs. Thunder Pre-Game 8/24/20

Rockets Attempt to Regain Control of Series Versus Thunder in Game 4

Next Man Up.    Solving Dort.    No Time for Games.

“Well nobody’s perfect.” A quote from Hollwyood’s Sunshine Boulevard, and a reminder that the Rockets were never going to sweep the Thunder. Not without Russell Westbrook. And they’ll be without Brodie again tonight, as James Harden and the Rockets try to bounce back from a poor shooting night against Chris Paul and the Thunder in Game 4 of their first round matchup. Houston leads the series 2-1, but OKC has the momentum. The Thunder outscored the Rockets 15-3 in the overtime of their Game 3 victory. James Harden fouled out late in Game 3, and once that happened, Chris Paul took over for OKC, and the rest was history. Houston didn’t stand a chance with Eric Gordon shooting them out of the game with ill-advised shot attempts and poor decision making.

Luguentz Dort proved he’s the real deal on defense in Game 3. Or was it just a game? Harden still scored 38 points, but Dort showed to be a true challenger on the defensive end for the Beard. Still, Harden’s experience and drive should push the Beard and the Rockets past Dort and the Thunder in Game 4. Coach Mike D’Antoni needs to choose smarter in-game lineups to use. There’s no reason Robert Covington should be on the bench at the end of a close game.

As this series now stands at 2-1, the Rockets have no time for games. The Thunder demonstrated why they’re the best crunch-time team in the league. Houston has to buckle down, get off to a hot start, and get the victory in Game 4. If this series becomes tied, all the pressure shifts to the Rockets, and they don’t know when Russ is coming back. There’s no time for games. It’s time to strap in and get ready for liftoff. This time… hopefully the Rockets are a little bit closer to perfect.

 

AdventHealthn Arena:  Orlando, Florida

 

Jersey Colors:

Houston Rockets (2-1):  Black

Oklahoma City Thunder (1-2):  White

 

TV:  3PM CT – TNT,  AT&T Sportsnet SW