Houston Rockets Get Narrow Win Over Nets

Dec 12, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) dribbles the ball as Brooklyn Nets guard Sean Kilpatrick (6) defends during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Rockets got their seventh straight win and held off the Nets’ late comeback attempt in the victory.

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The Houston Rockets had a nail-biting victory over the Brooklyn Nets, Monday night, at the Toyota Center. Following their blowout win over the Dallas Mavericks, the Rockets have now extended their winning streak to seven.

Thanks to an early 18-4 run, as expected the Rockets came out and took care of business early. With eights points, five assists and rebounds alone, James Harden led Houston to a 29-24 first quarter lead.

Behind Eric Gordon and Patrick Beverley, Houston watched as their lead grew as much as 14 points. As they took their foot off the accelerator, the Nets battled their way back and trailed 53-43 at halftime with Brook Lopez leading the way.

Similar to their most recent games, the Rockets gave new life into the Nets during the second half. After holding the Nets to 19 points in the second quarter, the Rockets allowed Brooklyn to score 42 points in the third.

Up 85-80, it took 18 fourth quarter points by Gordon and a solid defensive performance by Nene to give the Rockets the win.

Next: Rockets Starting Front Court

Dec 12, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) shoots the ball as Brooklyn Nets guard Bojan Bogdanovic (44) defends during the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Rockets Starting Front Court

As the season progresses so too does <a rel=. C. Houston Rockets. CLINT CAPELA. C-

Houston Rockets. RYAN ANDERSON. B. Slowly but surely <a rel=. PF

Although his night got off to a bad start, it was not long before Ariza’s shot started to fall. Too often the things Ariza does off the ball get overlooked as once again he was the best 2-way player. 7 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, Plus/Minus (+4).. SF. Houston Rockets. TREVOR ARIZA. C

Next: Rockets Starting BackCourt

Dec 12, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Isaiah Whitehead (15) dribbles the ball as Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) defends during the fourth quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Rockets Starting BackCourt

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. 11 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, Plus/Minus (+3). SG. Houston Rockets. PATRICK BEVERLEY. B+

A. As expected, James Harden had a phenomenal performance. Arguably one of his best all-around performances of the season so far. His shooting got off to a rocky start, but what he lacked on the offensive end, he made up in other aspects of the game. When the Rockets need someone to keep pace with the Nets in the second half, Harden once more went into Mamba mode. Another great game for the league’s MVP. 36 points, 11 assists, 8 rebounds, Plus/Minus (-2). PG. Houston Rockets. JAMES HARDEN

Next: Best Bench/Opponent

Dec 12, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Brooklyn Nets center Brook Lopez (11) attempts to spin around Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (15) during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Best Bench/Opponent

A. It was another solid performance from the Rockets’ bench as a whole. However, Eric Gordon’s performance stood out the most. In the midst of Houston’s fourth quarter struggles, Gordon gave the Rockets new life with 18 points in the quarter. Much like Harden, another great performance by the League’s Sixth Man of the Year! 24 points, Plus/Minus (+8).. SG. Houston Rockets. ERIC GORDON

The Nets gave the Rockets more than they could handle this game, yet their biggest threat came from Brook Lopez. After his performance in Houston, it is safe to say this guy deserves more credit from around the league. 26 points, 2 blocks Plus/Minus (+14).. C. Brooklyn Nets. BROOK LOPEZ. A

After the win, the Houston Rockets will return to action, Wednesday, as they take on the Sacramento Kings.

Next: Quarter Season Awards: James Harden For MVP

Enjoy the season Red Nation and be sure to stay connected with Space City Scoop as our amazing team of writers keep you abreast of all things Houston Rockets.

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