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 40th 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 25th in defensive rating. During this winning-streak, the Rockets’ defensive rating has been 8th 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.