Rockets Battle Mavs, Kick-Off Bubble Season
I-45 to Florida. Slim Era. Time to Teach.
One of the NBA’s biggest rivalries gets renewed in a new atmosphere on Friday night, as the Rockets get back to the hardwood in a battle against the Dallas Mavericks. It’s the first game for both teams since mid-March, so expect a little rust on both sides. Houston needs to be sharp on defense so they can be competitive while their shooting takes time to find rhythm.
In their final scrimmage on Tuesday, Eric Gordon turned his ankle and will miss about two weeks. Danuel House will start in EG’s place. Hopefully, Ben McLemore, Austin Rivers, and other reserves take advantage of increased playing time.
People in the media love to compare Luka Doncic to James Harden. And people in the media love to adore Doncic, and they thrive on criticizing Harden. But, both players style of play is similar. Expect Harden to teach the sophomore star some tricks as the Rockets look to get back to work with a win tonight. There’s slim room for error for Houston. Currently sixth in the standings, the Rockets have a chance to climb all the way up to the third, or possibly second seed. The squad could also fall to the eight. Every game’s important down the stretch. Friday’s matchup against the in-state rival Mavs marks the first of eight games Houston will play before the playoffs begin. The Rockets don’t have time to give up big leads, play down to their competition, or get complacent. Now is the time to move up in the standings, take advantage of this unique situation. It all begins tonight, with a beatdown (hopefully) of the Mavs… Florida style.
Orlando, Florida
Houston Rockets (40-24)
Dallas Mavericks (40-27)
TV: 8 PM CT – ESPN, AT&T Sportsnet SW