The Houston Rockets defeated the host Brooklyn Nets, 137-112, at Barclay’s Center on Sunday.
The second-best offense facing the worst defense usually results in a lot of points and that was just the case here. This was a near wire-to-wire win for Houston, as they won each individual quarter and never trailed after the first three minutes. Scoring came at ease for the Rockets, as they shot 51 percent from the field and 48 percent from three-point range. Rebounding was a key advantage for Houston, winning that battle, 50-38. The Houston starters really put it to the Nets starters too, outscoring them, 89-49.
The Rockets (32-11) were in the midst of their first losing streak of the season, but a matchup against the Nets is a great way to break that. James Harden was once again the star, as he tallied 22 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists en route to a triple-double. Eric Gordon was a huge spark off the bench, as he accrued 24 points, three rebounds and three assists. Trevor Ariza also surpassed 20 points, providing 23 points, eight rebounds and two steals. Patrick Beverley collected 16 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Montrezl Harrell got the start at center and dropped 16 points and seven rebounds.
The Nets (8-32) have struggled on defense all season and a date with the Rockets is the last thing they wanted to see. Trevor Booker led the team in scoring, contributing 18 points, five rebounds and three steals. Justin Hamilton got the start for Brook Lopez (rest) and totaled 11 points, three rebounds and three blocks in the defeat. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson was great off the bench, amassing 14 points, seven rebounds and three steals.
Both teams will be in action again on Tuesday, as they Rockets play the Miami Heat on the road, while the Nets host the Toronto Raptors.
