Rockets Play Host to Nuggets, as Houston Attempts to Derail Denver’s Playoff Climb
Rocky Roads. Porter Battle. Dream for 15.
Houston’s dream for their 15th win of the season continues on Friday night, as they host the Denver Nuggets, another team who’s experienced a rocky road this season, albeit more recently. The Nuggets just lost their star point guard Jamal Murray for the season, as Murray suffered an ACL-tear. Denver also acquired Aaron Gordon from the Orlando Magic at the trade deadline, and the team was on a roll before the Murray injury. Now, Denver will look to Michael Porter Jr. to do most of the playmaking. The Nuggets also have the front-runner for this year’s MVP, Nikola Jokic, the best center in basketball.
The Rockets have a tall task in stopping Jokic tonight. Denver’s superstar can play inside the paint and outside on the perimeter. Christian Wood and Kelly Olynyk combined for 50 points in Houston’s previous game, and the Rockets will need to replicate that performance to beat the Nuggets tonight. Houston will continue to test Kevin Porter Jr.’s ability to play against the best in the NBA, and he will go to battle against another Porter, the Nuggets’ Michael Porter Jr. Whoever wins that matchup will be key to tonight’s game.
Regardless, Denver has the best player on the floor in Jokic. The Murray injury certainly hurt the Nuggets, but Denver’s not rolling over, and still trying to climb as high as possible in the standings. Tonight will be a tough matchup for Houston, but if the Rockets can avoid falling into their token early-game hole, they might have a chance against this solid Nuggets team after all.
Toyota Center: Houston, Texas
Jersey Colors:
Denver Nuggets (35-20): “Earned Edition” White
Houston Rockets (14-41): “City Edition” Blue
TV: 7 PM CT – AT&T Sportsnet SW, NBA League Pass