Rockets Meet 76ers in Final Game Before Playoffs
We Talkin’ Bout Practice. Cautious Approach. Calm Before the Storm.
In the last game of the regular season, the Houston Rockets take on the Philadelphia 76ers in game that means, literally nothing. Seeding won’t change, in fact the first round playoff matchups are already set. Coach Mike D’Antoni should rest James Harden and key Rockets to ensure no one else suffers an injury. Houston can’t afford anymore injuries or they’re in deep trouble against Oklahoma City in the first round. Look for plenty of guys at the end of the bench to see playing time tonight for the Rockets. Other than Eric Gordon, who’s looking to find a rhythm, no rotational player should see heavy minutes for Houston. As Allen Iverson once said back when he played for the Sixers, in this game, “we talkin’ bout practice.”
Ben Simmons will miss the remainder of the season with an injury, and Joel Embiid is also questionable for Philly as well, with an ankle injury. The final Friday Night Fight of the season shouldn’t be too exciting for the Rockets, but certain players (Gordon, McLemore, Green) need to continue to stay hot. Health is of utmost importance, Red Nation can’t survive any more injuries. Don’t expect to see the edgiest hustle in tonight’s tilt. Houston’s first playoff game isn’t until Tuesday, so the squad has three days off after tonight’s closer. Hopefully, they can get rested and healthy before the start of a HUGE series, which begins next week.
Tonight’s game is just the clam before the storm. It’s shooting practice for Eric Gordon. And Benny Mac. And Jeff Green. And Austin Rivers. Because without Westbrook, the Rockets are going to need them to step up. Contrary to the narrative going around, I still think Houston is a better team than OKC without Westbrook. The Beard is playing some of the best of basketball of his life. But it’s not that he’s playing well, it’s what he’s changed. The step-back king shot over 50% from distance in the bubble, and averaged close to 40 points a game. Chris Paul’s having an All-Star season for the Thunder, and OKC will have the usual size advantage. But, man, it’d be a sight to cherish to see Russ wreak havoc on his old team. Friday night won’t bring the same drama, but the Rockets still can still work out kinks in their system. And one can only hope… Houston hasn’t seen the last of Westbrook in a game this season.
AdventHealth Arena (NBA Bubble): Orlando, Florida
Jersey Colors:
Philadelphia 76ers (42-30): “City” White
Houston Rockets (44-27): Red
TV: 8 PM CT – ESPN, AT&T Sportsnet SW