Rockets Hold Off Pelicans, 126-123, Claim First Win
Past and Present Magic. Danuel’s House. Searching for Rhythm.
A win’s a win. Goes the old cliche. On Saturday night, the Rockets got their first win of the young season, hanging on to fend off the Pelicans, 126-123. It wasn’t the prettiest victory, but right now, they’ll get a win any way possible. A win’s a win. New Orleans stayed with Houston for most of the night. The Rockets even trailed by 3 after 3 quarters. Brandon Ingram led the way with 35 points and 15 boards for the Pelicans. But Russell Westbrook’s play in the final frame secured the victory. Houston started the quarter on an 8-0 run, and Russ took over late going 4 for 7 from the field in the fourth. Westbrook finished with 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 13 assists. The 139th triple-double of his career, passing the legendary Magic Johnson on the all-time list. A feat no one expected when Westbrook entered the league over a decade ago, back in 2007. If Westbrook wants to be dominant on this Rockets team, he needs to be more efficient and improve his decision-making. You could say the same for his partner in crime, James Harden.
The Beard almost blew the game with a late turnover that resulted in a New Orleans dunk that cut the lead to one point. Houston survived and got the win, but if they want to compete against the NBA’s elite, they’ll need smarter plays down the stretch from Harden. James finished with 29 points, but went 2-for18 from three, on a terrible shooting night. It’s still early in the season. Harden and Westbrook even said it would take time. It’s inevitable that growing pains will occur. Houston can only hope they don’t linger for too long. The good news for the Rockets: the rest of the squad looks ready to prove why Houston’s roster is arguably the deepest the league has to offer.
Danuel House Jr. has been Houston’s most efficient player so far this season. Time will tell if Mike D’Antoni’s decision to insert House with the starting unit was the right move. Regardless, House looks as comfortable as ever as a Rocket, in his first full season with team. Elsewhere, Eric Gordon still needs regain his shooting rhythm. Splash Gordon connected on only 2 of 9 shots from deep. House, meanwhile, finished with 15 points, on 4 of 5 shooting from beyond the arc. P.J. Tucker had 16 points to go along with the usual hustle he brings on every play. Clint Capela chipped in with 15 points and 7 boards. Houston just needs their start backcourt to get in sync with House and co. It might take a little time, but once everyone shakes off the rust, the Rockets will be a tough out any night.
Up next, the Rockets have a reunion of sorts. It won’t be an easy contest. Russell Westbrook faces the only team he ever knew before donning Rocket red, the Oklahoma City Thunder. It will be weird to see a familiar face wearing Oklahoma City’s uniform. Chris Paul returns to town, intent on seeking revenge against his former team. Houston will try to prevent that, as Episode 3 of the Beard and Brodie Era continues on Monday night. And if the Rockets can get the victory, don’t expect to hear, “a win’s a win,” afterward. The next game’s personal.