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For the undermanned Houston Rockets, who’re at the moment missing four expected rotation players because of COVID-19 points, successful at Denver was at all times going to be a tall order. Nonetheless, All-Star guard James Harden and new heart Christian Wooden confirmed flashes of what could possibly be a formidable pairing down the road, as soon as the depth returns.
In Monday’s 124-111 loss (box score), perennial All-Star guard James Harden led the best way with 34 factors and eight assists in simply 31 minutes, making 10-of-16 photographs (62.5%) from the sphere. In the meantime, Wooden adopted up 31 factors and 13 rebounds in Saturday’s debut at Portland with 23 factors (45% FG) and two blocks towards the Nuggets.
For a second straight recreation to open the 2020-21 common season, the Rockets had solely 9 lively gamers — only one above the NBA’s minimal requirement of eight to play a recreation. Dealing with a Denver squad led by Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic and coming off a Western Convention Finals berth, it was a tricky process for Houston — particularly with a brief rotation and on a second street recreation in three nights, and at excessive altitude.
The excellent news for the Rockets (0-2), from a wins and losses perspective, is that three of the 4 key absences (John Wall, Eric Gordon, and DeMarcus Cousins) are expected back in time for Houston’s subsequent recreation on Thursday. Ben McLemore, who reportedly examined optimistic for the coronavirus, may take a few extra days. Reinforcements are on the best way.
Till then, although, Houston followers can take some comfort within the huge numbers from their prime duo. See beneath for a compilation of highlights by Harden and Wooden from Monday’s recreation.
🔥 BEARDING 🔥
🏀 34PTS
🏀 8AST
🏀 6REB pic.twitter.com/Yl1VKVZ8GF— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) December 29, 2020
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