James Harden scored 35 points to lead the Houston Rockets to a 137-112 victory against the Boston Celtics on Tuesday in the NBA Season Restart Scrimmage finale for both teams at Orlando.
The Rockets were rarely challenged as the Celtics gave their usual starters the night off. Houston never trailed after taking the lead with 3:46 to play in the first quarter, outscoring the Celtics by 13 in the second quarter and eight in the second half to cruise to victory.
The win, though, was marred by an injury to sharpshooter Eric Gordon, who hurt his ankle late in the second quarter and did not return. His status for the restart season opener Friday is uncertain.
Harden added eight rebounds and six assists in 30 minutes. Russell Westbrook chipped in with 19 points, eight assists and six rebounds, while Robert Covington totaled 16 points and seven boards.
Carsen Edwards paced Boston with 19 points, while Semi Ojeleye and Robert Williams III finished with 12 points each.
The Rockets will restart their season Friday against the Dallas Mavericks, while the Celtics play the Milwaukee Bucks in a battle of Eastern Conference heavyweights.
