Rockets vs. Kings Post-Game 12/23/19

Rockets Conquer Kings, 113-104, Earn Fourth Straight Win

Terrific Tandem.    Impending Returns.    Something New.

We’d seen this story unravel in multiple games earlier this year, in distant memories of the past. The Rockets up big, before letting a team back in the game. This contest brough to mind the “it’s not destroying, it’s making something new” quote from the 2018 film Annihilation. Revenge comes in many forms, and while the Rockets didn’t quite annihilate the Kings on Monday night, Houston staved off a Sacramento rally to win, 113-104. For a squad prone to allowing comebacks, the Rockets didn’t let this game get away. Something new in its own right, as Houston’s too many heartbreaking losses, the worst of which was to Sacramento in the first matchup of the season. James Harden and Russell Westbrook were a terrific tandem in sync once again, both with efficient performances. If any doubters remain wondering if Harden and Russ can play together, they’re just confused. Brodie and the Beard have been terrific during the squad’s 4-game winning streak. In Sac-Town, the two combined for 62 points, on a combined 20-for-41 shooting from he field, including a lethal 7-for-15 from downtown. Harden scored 34, while Russ finished with 28, as he continues to increasingly infuse himself with Houston’s offensive system with each game. Clint Capela had another solid game for the Rockets, posting 15 points and 14 boards, while providing tough interior defense on Marvin Bagley. Capela’s become a double-double machine, seemingly getting one each night nowadays. Houston needs the big man to continue having the best season of his career as we approach the midway point of the season.

The Rockets withstood a brilliant game from De’Aaron Fox, who had 31 points for the Kings. It wasn’t enough for Sac-Town, as Houston brought too much firepower for the Kings to stop. The Rockets are really starting to gel as a unit. Westbrook finally appears to know the role Houston needs him to provide. Ben McLemore has been the most pleasant surprise of the year for the Rockets. The only question remains, when Eric Gordon returns, how will it affect the play of Benny Mac, and the team? Only time will tell. EG has been seen shooting in pregame warmups, and his return is imminent. Coach Mike D’Antoni said Gordon’s most likely return date will be Sunday in New Orleans. It will be the second night of back-to-back for Houston, and Russell Westbrook likely won’t be playing in New Orleans. It’s also the last place Gordon played before getting knee surgery, having one of his best games of the season. How fitting would it be if EG could literally pick up right where he left off?

For now, Houston will continue to annihilate their competition without Splash Gordon. The Rockets finish up their West-Coast trip on Christmas Day, in Golden State’s brand new arena. The opponent responsible for ending Houston’s season out 4 of the last 5 years. With all their injuries, it’s not the same Warriors team we’ve seen over the last few years. It doesn’t matter. Revenge comes in many forms, and on Wednesday, Santa’s giving the Rockets a shot at some Christmas revenge as they play the Warriors for the first time in their new arena. Golden State’s shiny, luxurious, grand Chase Center. While Houston might not destroy the Warriors, they have a chance to start something new, and make all those losses in Golden States just distant memories of the past.