OKC Thunder and Houston Rockets Set to Meet on Christmas Day

Russell Westbrook and Paul George vs. CP3 and James Harden? Merry early Christmas Houston Rocket fans!

The NBA released the schedule for the opening week and Christmas day games today. The Houston Rockets are geared for some early season fun. Opening night, the squad will travel to Oakland for a showdown against the defending champion Golden State Warriors.

Unfortunately, the Houston Rockets couldn’t participate in the Christmas festivities last season. However, a 55 win season and a trip to the Western Conference Semis was enough to bring H-town back for Christmas day. The opponent? None other than Russell Westbrook, Paul George and the dangerous Oklahoma City Thunder.

While the game will be in OKC this season, it’s nice to have the Rockets back on the big stage. Something to look out for is the Christmas uniforms. Personally, I have liked most of the designs in the past. But with Nike running the show, it’ll be interesting to see what they come up with.

Take a look at the announcement from the NBA along with the other matchups:

Which #NBAXmas game are YOU most looking forward to? pic.twitter.com/642bUPdfKA

— NBA (@NBA) August 10, 2017

Brodie vs. the Beard on Christmas Day

The major things to look out for will be the new look teams. The classic “Brodie” vs “the Beard” will shine brightest. But what a Christmas it shall be with the additions of Chris Paul and Paul George. A revamped first round match-up with four of the top players in the NBA? What else could Santa bring? Perhaps a Houston Rockets victory? Maybe an incredible triple double effort from James Harden?

The game should mean more for both squads. It will be interesting to see where both teams will be in the standings come Christmas time. Will both sets of stars be in sync with their teams? Will Billy Donovan and Mike D’Antoni have a strategy to maximize the talent assembled? Who will win the battle of the bench? However these questions are answered, one thing is certain. It provides both teams a chance to measure up against one another.

While this game should be fun, both teams will be going at each other hard. It is an opportunity for both teams to get tested and prepared for a potential meeting in the postseason. It is never too early for teams to get good habits going. The focus for the Houston Rockets will be establishing a rhythm within the team and getting what should be an improved defense rolling.

If this year’s Rockets out-duel the new look Thunder and establish solid defensive habits, watch out Golden State and San Antonio.

Look out tomorrow for our preview of the opening day matchup vs. the Warriors.

Follow Space City Scoop on Twitter and like us on Facebook for more Houston Rockets! Let us know what you think of this match up and the opening night match up.

Next: James Harden is the NBA Live 18 Cover Athlete