Rockets Soar Past Hawks, 121-105, Take Third Straight Win
Threedom. Every Team. Extra Boost.
Someone provided an extra boost for the Houston Rockets on Tuesday night. Something he’s done in each game since his return. Danuel House Jr. The Rockets are undefeated with House back in the lineup and finished off the Hawks, 121-105, behind a strong team effort last night. Houston was hot from 3-point land, shooting 40% from beyond the arc. When the Rockets shoot at least 40% from deep this season, they’re 34-4. Houston had another third quarter 3-point barrage that allowed them to distance themselves from Atlanta en route to victory. Danuel House had a career-high 19 points, including a career-best 6 made 3’s. House continues to shine in all aspects of the game. His decision-making continues to be tremendous, and results in his incredible efficiency. House made some great passes, and was a plus-20 for the Rockets in Atlanta. His hustle and defense remain constants and contagious, changing this Rockets team from just another team, to the dark horse no one wants to face in the playoffs. Clint Capela had a strong game in the post, with 26 points and 11 boards. Chris Paul continues to play the role of master distributor. CP3 served up 11 dimes, and chipped in 13 points. And then there was James Harden. Who had a near triple-double, posting 31 points, 8 rebounds, and 10 assists.
The Beard has now scored at least 30 points against all 29 opposing teams in the NBA this season. A remarkable feat, that hasn’t been accomplished since Jordan did it in his heyday. Harden continues to play MVP-level basketball the year after finally winning the award. He deserves it again this season. The Beard may not be voted the MVP, but the league the guy who’s been serving up lessons all season long. James Harden has garnered the respect from his peers, as he continues to play the best basketball of his life. Kent Bazemore even posted a note giving an explanation of how and why he was put on the latest Harden-highlight reel. Harden continues to dominate the floor, but in a different way. The Beard now has 5-straight games with 10 or more assists. Back when so many players were injured, Harden had to do all the scoring. Now that everyone’s healthy, he can display his excellence as an all-around player, on both ends of the floor. The Rockets continue to get better defensively. Health is a major reason. The return of Danuel House Jr. may be the biggest reason.
Houston is 3-0 since House returned to the lineup. The Houstonian has 51 points in his first 3 games back in a Rocket uniform. House hasn’t skipped a beat since going to the G-League. In fact, he’s been even better. House looks more comfortable on the floor and has yet again earned heavy minutes into the Rockets rotation. Houston plays with a different ferocity with House on the floor. He’s not an All-Star, but he adds value to this Rockets team that cannot be measured. The intangibles House brings to along with his hustle every night. House is shooting close to 50% from 3, and has the poise confidence of an All-Star. James Harden called House “the perfect fit” and the Beard’s right. Numbers can’t measure a player’s ability to adapt and embrace his role. But House does that better than just about anybody in the NBA. And he just might be the extra boost Houston needs to go all the way.