Houston Rockets Win Ugly versus Pistons: Player Grades 11.21.16

Nov 21, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) is defended by Detroit Pistons guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (5) during the second quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

James Harden scored 28 points and dished out 11 assists, as the Houston Rockets extended their winning streak to three, Monday, against the Detroit Pistons, at The Palace.

Despite rolling into Detroit on a two-game winning streak, the Houston Rockets had a lousy start to the game. During the first 12 minutes, Houston turned the ball over six times and missed all four of their attempts from behind the arc. In addition Houston allowed the Detroit Pistons to outscore them 20-8 within minutes of the opening tip.

Yet, one must give credit where credit is due. And Detroit’s defense was the primary reason for the Rockets first quarter struggles.

While Detroit’s defense stayed focused on containing James Harden, it opened the door for the Rockets second unit to step up in his place. Among players who did so in Harden’s time of need was Sam Dekker. Behind Dekker and Corey Brewer, Houston battled back to take a 51-46 lead into the half.

Although Houston would see their lead increase to 10 points midway through the third, their lack of focus on the defensive end allowed the Pistons to retake control of the game. Thankfully, the Rockets were able to withstand the Pistons’ final run to win the game.

Next: Battle of the Bigs

Nov 21, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) gets the loose ball against Detroit Pistons guard Ish Smith (14) during the second quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Next: Ryan Anderson

Nov 21, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) adjusts his shorts during the second quarter against the Detroit Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Next: Trevor Ariza

Nov 21, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) dribbles the ball against Detroit Pistons guard Ish Smith (14) during the second quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Next: Patrick Beverley

Nov 21, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) looks for an open man during the first quarter against the Detroit Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

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In his third game back, Patrick Beverley has shown no sign of rust. In fact, Beverley looks to be in midseason form already. Every team needs at least one player whose production on the court cannot be valued by stats alone. It is the little things like passing up an open shot to a teammate that has a better look, setting a screen or getting a deflection that matter. Of note his effort on defense remains as he often picked up the extra player when one of his teammates stepped out of position on defense.

9 Points,1 Rebound, 1 Assist, 1 Steal, 1 Turnover, Plus/Minus (-14)

Next: James Harden

Nov 21, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) gets defended by Detroit Pistons forward Stanley Johnson (7) during the second quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Next: Best Rockets Reserve and Opponent

Nov 21, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Houston Rockets forward Sam Dekker (7) takes a shot over Detroit Pistons forward Stanley Johnson (7) during the second quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

This was on the second loss for the Pistons on their home court where they have the honor of the best home court defense.

Next up the Rockets face the Raptors at the Toyota Center on Wednesday evening.

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While riding a three-game winning streak, the Rocket will return home Wednesday, to take on the Toronto Raptors.