Rockets Limp into Rematch with Clippers, Severely Undermanned, Need Help From Supporting Cast
It’s only been four games into the season, but people are already talking about other teams, NOT the Houston Rockets, as being the teams that are most likely to unseat Golden State from their historically overrated throne as NBA Champions. However, people don’t always know what they’re talking about. Especially when it’s from afar. True, this hasn’t been the start the Rockets or their fans had hoped for or envisioned. No one saw a weak Brandon Ingram push on Harden, either from frustration or self-awareness, after realizing he’s never going to be even close to the revolutionary player James Harden is, cause an early season ripple effect on this very young season. That play out of frustration, that’s usually seen on the streets when people quit or are tired, was the fuse that instigated the entire brawl. Sure, Rondo’s decision to spit rather than just sit really cost the Rockets. There was nothing Chris Paul could do. Anyone would have retaliated in that situation. I’m just glad PJ Tucker was there to shield him as Brandon Ingram returned to THROW PUNCHES from as he approached the spittle huddle from behind. The fact he only got 4 games is astounding, but that’s a story for another day. The real story here is that the season is barley under way and the Rockets have dealt with quite a bit through only 4 games. Chris Paul’s absence for 2 games is obviously a huge loss in leadership on and off the court because he wasn’t allowed on the bench for being suspended. Adam Silver might actually think Rondo’s spit is deadly. It’s certainly killed the aging vet’s ability to play, even play fair. It’s very unfortunate the injury bug has hit the team, but especially James Harden, who is one of the most durable players the league’s ever seen. It doesn’t help that they most important new addition to the team, James Ennis, is sidelined as well. He needs to be on the court to be fully integrated into the D’Antoni system and gain chemistry with his new teammates. All of these factors play a role into the Rockets’ current situation, along with the additions of new players, sloppy play, and an opener where Harden was bound to come out somewhat unfocused after FINALLY receiving an award he’d earned for 4 seasons in a row. So, despite being 1-3, the Houston Rockets are much deadlier than any 1-3 team I can remember, and I doubt any NBA GM would want a first round matchup again the Rockets when at full strength. Once this team gets healthy and gets the new players cohesive in D’Antoni’s lethal system, the Rockets will once again be Golden State’s biggest rival to their “title” as NBA Champions. Tonight, the squad just needs to band together, players will obviously have immense opportunities for playing time and expanded roles and they need to seize this advantage. The Los Angeles Clippers are not a great team, even though they beat the Rockets earlier this year. On defense the Rockets need to focus in on Tobias Harris, don’t be intimidated by Patrick Beverley’s defense, and they’ll get the victory. This is a rematch the Rockets should be motivated for and be able to win. Clint Capela, PJ Tucker, Eric Gordon, Carmelo Anthony, and the rest of the guys who are ready to go is more than enough to take down a Clippers squad that competes hard, but lacks talent. The Rockets just need to outmatch the Clippers’ intensity and play together, and they’ll get their first home win of the season.
Toyota Center – Houston, Texas
7 PM CT – ATT Sportsnet