Houston Rockets vs Milwaukee Bucks Preview

Jan 13, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) is introduced before the start of their game against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. The Raptors beat the Bucks 116-94. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Rockets look to bounce back from an epic 2nd half collapse Thursday night as they host the team with the worst record in the NBA in the Milwaukee Bucks(7-31). Here are the keys to a win:

Finish What You Start

Needless to say, the Rockets’ inability to finish off a double-digit lead will be in question for quite some time after blowing a 14 point halftime lead to the Thunder. It’s a safe bet that the Rockets probably will not be scoring anywhere near 19 points in a half, but should a huge lead be established early in the game, the killer instinct must be found.

Protect The Ball

Turnovers continue to be a lingering problem for the Rockets, as they have averaged close to 16 turnovers per game in the last 5 games. They’re also giving up 17.8 points off turnovers, which ties for 4th most in the league. With the Bucks being the least efficient offensive team in the NBA(last in scoring and field goal percentage), the Rockets cannot give away easy baskets.

Recapture Winning Ways

The Rockets have to find their flow on offense, as there were too many possessions where things got stagnant in the 2nd half of Thursday’s loss to the Thunder. The Bucks come in dead last in PACE, offensive rating, and points per game, while scoring less than 80 points in 3 of their past 5 games. Add in the fact that they’ve also lost 7 straight games, and 10 of their last 11, and this has the makings of being a blowout. Then again, with the way the Rockets have been all season, who knows which team will show up.

Bucks Key Players:

Brandon Knight– 15.4 PPG, 4.3 ASPG, 41% FGP

O.J. Mayo– 13 PPG, 40% FGP, 38% 3P%

John Henson– 12.1 PPG, 8 RPG, 52% FGP

Tip: 7 PM CT

TV: CSN Houston

Alpharetta Roofing