Game 29: Houston Rockets Vs. Charlotte Hornets Preview
The Houston Rockets rebounded quite nicely with a quality win over the Los Angeles Clippers Saturday night.
No matter how bad this season has gone, the Rockets have consistently found a way to beat the Clips.
I think it’s for the bragging rights and these guys seem to always play hard when it comes to those guys.
I’m happy because these Rockets are at least undefeated against the Clips this season.
I have to give much credit/love to J.B. Bickerstaff in being able to out-coach the legendary Doc Rivers just a bit more for the guys to get the win.
But after a day off, the Rockets will now face an improved 15-11 Charlotte Hornets team that is one of the most-balanced in this league at this time.
When you look at the roster, the face value doesn’t seem all that great but Steve Clifford has these guys motivated and it’s starting to show within the standings column.
The Rockets shouldn’t take this team lightly because they could very well be on the outside looking in wondering why the hell they chalked up another loss.
Also, Jeremy Lin is back in H-Town for the first time in awhile, it will be interesting to see how the crowd reacts when he checks in, he’s still quite beloved here at home by fans.
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So who’s leading the charge for the Hornets?
It’s a two-man wrecking crew.
Kemba Walker leads the team in scoring (18.2 PPG), assists (4.8 APG) and steals (1.70 SPG). Marvin Williams is the top-board getter (7.2 RPG) and shot-blocker (1.20 BPG).
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Let’s talk about what the Hornets do well.
They are well-balanced on both ends of the floor. The Hornets are 5th in the league as far as offensive efficiency, averaging 104.1 points per 100 possessions.
On the other hand, they’re also ranked 10th in defensive efficiency, allowing only 99.4 points per 100 possessions.
Injuries:
Ty Lawson has been suspended for two games as a result of his pleading and the verdict stemming from his 2014 DUI charges. The Rockets should hum along just fine without him but he is valuable in terms of ensuring that Patrick Beverley gets the rest he needs. He has been terrible for the Rockets to say the least so far this season.
Jason Terry did miss yesterday’s practice for personal reasons, keep your eyes peeled for his status as if it’s serious, he may be out tonight.
Sam Dekker had back surgery and is expected to miss about a couple more months.
There are no injuries to report for the Charlotte Hornets.
Sources: Jenny Dial Creech/Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle and Calvin Watkins of ESPN.com
Three Things to Watch:
- James Harden vs. Nicolas Batum
- Patrick Beverley vs. Walker
- Clint Capela vs. Williams
Prediction:
104-99 in a Rockets’ loss.
The Rockets are back at home to take on the Hornets at Toyota Center.
Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST.
The game will be televised on ROOT Sports Southwest and broadcast on SportsTalk 790 AM (KBME) and La Ranchera 850 AM (KEYH) in Spanish.
Go Rockets!