Houston Rockets Daily Rocket Science: The 3 Percent

Even after last night’s unlikely win, ESPN’s BPI gives the Rockets just a 3% chance of winning the series.

And frankly, I can’t say I disagree. I’m thrilled that the Houston Rockets won last night. The team had to have a lot of heart to go out and win an important game, and they showed flashes of greatness over the course of the evening. As expected, it was James Harden who played the hero, hitting a step-back jumper for the win with less than three seconds on the clock.

However, I would not place any money on the Rockets taking down the Golden State Warriors in the series if I were a betting man. They scraped out a win against a team that was missing its best player. That just goes to show how truly great their opponent is – they, unlike the Rockets, can depend on a number of players on the roster on most nights. I’d love to see Houston even up the series on Sunday, but I’m appropriately worried that won’t be the case.

Houston Rockets news and notes from around the web

Despite the fact that he was the man of the hour last night, the Beard has been the subject of a copious amount of criticism over the course of the season. His defensive lapses are worth laughing at, but Space City Scoop’s Coty Davis argues that Harden does not deserve as much blame as he gets.

"As the NBA’s leader in minutes played at 38.1 MPG. How can Harden give maximum effort on defense when Houston expect so much from him on offense? What critics fail to realize is most of Harden’s imperfect defensive plays are the results of poor help defense from his teammates. (FYI ) Dwight Howard"

If things go as expected (praying they don’t, but trying to be realistic), then the Rockets’ off-season will be starting sooner rather than later. That means owner Leslie Alexander will have some decisions to make before too long. After having thoughts of hiring Tom Thibodeau or Scott Brooks as head coach next year, both have been taken off the market. As Space City Scoop editor Tamberlyn Richardson reports, Thibodeau has signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Brooks has signed with the Washington Wizards. Back to the drawing board, Leslie.

"Further Scott Brooks will likely be headed to Washington to replace the recently released Randy Whitman. This move is rather telling, in that it’s long been rumored may have interest in returning to where he grew up (Maryland suburbs). Given the long relationship Brooks had with Durant, I’m sure this effected the Wizard’s decision. Shaun Powell of nba.com is reporting Kevin Durant"

More from Space City Scoop

In non-basketball-related news, Houston has had some horrible flooding over the past few days, causing numerous deaths and billions of dollars in damages. In response, Mr. Leslie Alexander donated $500,000 dollars to the Greater Houston Storm Relief Fund to help with the recovery process, according to the Houston Rockets website.

“The great people of Houston have been there to support our franchise from the start,” said Alexander. “I am honored to assist the cause and work with Mayor Turner to help those in need during this difficult time.

“I am constantly amazed at the generosity of the Houston business community,” said Mayor Turner. “The donation from Leslie Alexander and the Houston Rockets speaks volumes about their commitment to this city. They recognize the need of so many Houstonians and are using a significant portion of their dollars to assist. Words cannot convey how much this is appreciated. Thank you!”

The Rockets continue their home stand on Sunday to see if they can even up the series at two games apiece. It is still yet to be determined if Steph Curry will suit up or not, but I doubt he’ll want to sit after watching last night’s thriller. Houston has overcome the odds before, so let’s hope they can take advantage of the 3% chance that’s been given them.

Even with the loss tonight, ESPN's BPI still gives Warriors a 97% chance to win the series. pic.twitter.com/3y4uL2oKxI

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) April 22, 2016

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Make sure you check out Space City Scoops end of season Rockets Round Table:

Next: Houston Rockets SCS Roundtable Part 1

Next: Houston Rockets SCS Roundtable Part 2

Next: Houston Rockets SCS Roundtable Part 3

Next: Houston Rockets Finally Get Win Versus Warriors - Player Grades

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