It’s a Small World After All: Pocket Rockets Stun Lakers, 121-111
Rockets in Space. Sensational Debut. Game-Changers.
“Sometimes it’s important to give people the illusion of being in control.” Dr. Melfi says in the epic TV-saga, The Sopranos. In Los Angeles, that’s exactly what the Rockets did coming into their big matchup with the West’s top-seeded Lakers. Heading into Thursday night’s showdown in L.A., everyone was laughing at Houston’s decision to permanently go the way of small-ball. The jokes didn’t stop. A nationally televised game on TNT, the crew had their fare share of laughs throughout the pre-game and halftime show about Houston’s lack of height. But by the time the buzzer sounded on Thursday night it was the Rockets who had the last laugh, shocking the Lakers at Staples Center, 121-111. In a tightly contested matchup, Houston closed the game on a 19-5 run to take control, and pull ahead for the victory. Russell Westbrook, who continues to play on an MVP-caliber level, was unleashed against the Lakers. No Clint Capela means way more space for Brodie. Russ attacked the basket relentlessly and led the way for Houston, finishing with 41 points, on an insanely efficient 17-for-28 shooting. Not even Anthony Davis’ height could affect Westbrook’s shot, who was 6-for-8 on midrange attempts while defended by the Brow. Brodie also grabbed 8 boards and dished out 5 assists, as at least for one game, the trade has proven to be a marvel for the Rockets, especially Westbrook. James Harden had a quiet night, if you only look at the box score. The Beard’s quietly stepped back, and allowed this basketball evolution to take place. He’s slowly stepped back, and allowed the potent tandem of Brodie and Benny Mac to take the forefront during their current winning streak. Harden attempted only 10 shots against the Lakers, making 3 of them for 14 points. But the Beard also had 7 boards and 7 assists, and continues to lead by example on the court. If Harden isn’t buying into small-ball, none of the Rockets will. And so far, the Beard is all-in on Houston’s micro-ball style. It may mean less touches for Harden. Westbrook is a better pure driver to the basket, and will benefit the most from Clint Capela’s departure. It doesn’t matter to the Beard if it means more wins, and a chance at the ultimate goal in June.
Robert Covington was sensational in his debut. The newest Rocket played like he’s been here all season long. RoCo fit into Houston’s style seamlessly, scoring 14 points on 5-for-9 shooting, along with solid defense. More importantly, he was efficient from deep, going 4-for-6 from downtown, including two clutch three’s late in the game. RoCo also had 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks, most notably a late swat on Anthony Davis in Houston’s biggest defensive play of the night. RoCo also finished with the team’s highest plus/minus, with Houston outscoring L.A. by 16 with Covington on the court in 29 minutes of action. Speaking of defense, the Rockets thrill and joy to buy-in to this style on offense seeped into the other end of the floor. Houston’s defense was actively engaged and inspired. These guys love playing this way, and it’s beautiful to watch. They surrendered only 11 second-chance points, and were out-rebounded by only 1 board all night. Those were supposed to be the weak areas for this mini-Rockets team. But Houston put so much effort into their style, you can tell they really want to make it work. As a fan, you can’t help but love the Rockets’ energy and passion. If this scheme is going to continue to work, the passion for the style can never fade.
Slowly but surely… this Rockets team has become, and has the potential to truly be a group of game-changers. Everyone who played for Houston in their win over the Lakers was 6’7 or shorter. The last time that happened before these Rockets? More than 50 years ago, back in 1963. Everyone’s asking the question: is this micro-ball style sustainable? Well, Houston doesn’t have a choice but to go small. It’s honestly their best chance at winning the championship in today’s modern NBA. The center position is truly dead, as witnessed by Detroit’s dumping of the NBA’s top-rebounder, Andre Drummond, to Cleveland, of all places. GM’s in the league nowadays truly believe that big men who can’t shoot with range have no place on Championship teams. Houston is now 5-0 since they’ve gone with this micro-ball style. A small sample size, or something more? As more games come, we’ll know how effective and potent this style can become. You don’t have to wait long for the next game. Houston travels to Phoenix for the second night of a back-to-back. They’ll have a big test in the Suns’ DeAndre Ayton, one of the best young big men in the league, who’s finally blossoming into a promising player in his second season. The Rockets have to keep that passion and energy for playing small and fast. Size doesn’t matter. But continue to let everyone think it does… sometimes it’s important to give people the illusion of being in control.