Recap: Houston Rockets Too Much For Clippers in Hollywood

James Harden and the Houston Rockets performed big under the bright lights of Hollywood.

Following one of their worst losses of the season, the Houston Rockets demolished the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday at the Staples Center. For a team that firmly believes they are on the level of the Golden State Warriors, beating up their personal play toy was a great measuring stick.

169. 103. 77. . 122

Despite good play from James Harden and Ryan Anderson, who scored a combined 16 first quarter points, the Rockets trailed 37-34 after the first period. Their struggles came on the defensive end as the Clippers shot over 50% to give them the early lead.

Unfortunately for Los Angeles, it would be their only lead of the game. After coming within one point midway through the second, the Rockets outscored the Clippers 66-34 over the next 24 minutes.

At the start of the fourth quarter, the Rockets watched their lead increased to 31 points. They let up a bit in the final 6 minutes or so, but it was one of the Clippers’ worst losses on the season.

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In the win, Houston had six players who scored in double figures, led by Harden who put up 26 points on 46% shooting. While shooting 38.5% from beyond the arc, the Rockets extended their record for most games with 20 or more 3-pointers made to nine games.

Despite Chris Paul‘s 16 points and 11 assists, the LA Clippers dropped to the fifth seed in the Western Conference with the playoffs only a few weeks away.

The Houston Rockets will look to win their second consecutive game Saturday night against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Next: 3-on-3: How Will Lou Affect Houston’s Playoff Chances?

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