Rockets-Wizards preview
12-29 Rockets (25-8) at Wizards (19-16)
TV: 7 pm NBC Sports Washington
Last game for Houston: 99-98 loss at Boston
- James Harden-34 points, 10 assists, 6 rebounds
- Eric Gordon-24 points, 3 assists, 3 rebounds
- Trevor Ariza-11 points, 6 rebounds
Last game for Washington: 113-99 loss at Atlanta
- Bradley Beal-20 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists
- Markieff Morris-18 points, 8 rebounds
- Otto Porter Jr.-15 points, 7 rebounds
Houston preview-The Rockets are playing the second of a back-to-back, in which they blew a 26-point lead to the Boston Celtics. The Rockets were outscored 56-28 in the second half, and Harden shot 3-17 from the field in the second half. Houston will need a huge effort once again, especially with guard Chris Paul questionable for the game. Paul, who is nursing a groin strain, has missed the previous three games for the Rockets. Also, Gordon will have to provide scoring as well, especially with center Clint Capela out with a orbital eye fracture.
Washington preview-The Wizards were called out after Wednesday’s embarrassing loss to the Atlanta Hawks, in which they played down to the worst team in the Eastern Conference. One stat that stood out, the Wizards were outrebounded by the Hawks, 53-40, and they gave up 16 offensive rebounds. John Wall, said to the Washington Post, that the Wizards are “playing for stats” when playing lesser competition. After tonight’s game, Washington’s next game will be an afternoon New Years’ Eve against the Chicago Bulls at 330 pm.
Houston projected starters-Anderson PF, Ariza SF, Nene C, Harden PG, Gordon SG.
Washington projected starters-Morris PF, Porter Jr. SF, Gortat C, Wall PG, Beal SG.
