Rockets Face Injury-Riddled Grizzlies in Memphis
No Name Game. Defensive Beard. Exceptional Loss.
After a grinding start to the season, the Rockets are finally getting their act together. Houston’s won 3 straight, and the squad is 12-2 Tonight, the Rockets take on the Grizzlies in Memphis. It’s the second night of a back-to-back, with Houston winning in Atlanta last night. The Rockets look to keep rolling victoriously as they face a battered Grizzlies team with approximately 8 players on their injury report for tonight’s matchup. Their will be a lot of players many fans don’t recognize, and the Rockets will be going up against an inferior opponent, who’s also depleted by injury. Memphis still has Mike Conley, but the Grizzlies are no match for the Rockets. Houston looks to win their 6th straight game against the Grizz on Wednesday night.
James Harden’s defensive prowess hasn’t been talked about much. Maybe, it’s because he’s having a historically amazing offensive season. But, people need to start to recognize what Harden’s doing on defense. It’s time to give the Beard some respect. Besides the fact that he’s the best post-defender in basketball, Harden leads the league in deflections per game, and is tied with Paul George for first in steals per game. It doesn’t need to be talked about. But if Harden keeps playing defense at this level, and Houston surprises people this June, his defense will get more attention than ever.
The Rockets were looking for talent, but caught got up in the attention and highlight-reels of past that is Carmelo Anthony. It’s set in stone. He was not a good fit. And the Rockets have been blasting up the ranks since he left the roster. Since Anthony’s last game in a Rocket uniform, Houston is 41-20. A record that’s the best in the brutal Western Conference, and only second in the league to the Milwaukee Bucks. Houston should make easy work of the Grizzlies on Wednesday night. Don’t expect much of a grind in the grindhouse. Although, the Rockets are fighting tired legs. This is their third game in 4 nights. They’re still playing against professional basketball players. If the Rockets play down to their competition, Houston could have a problem tonight. Expect a grind in the Grindhouse.
FedExForum: Memphis, Tennessee
Jersey Colors:
Houston Rockets (45-26): Red
Memphis Grizzlies (28-42): Gray
TV: 7 PM CT – ATT Sportsnet SW