Rockets vs. Grizzlies recap: Third time indeed is a charm

The Houston Rockets defeat the Memphis Grizzlies tonight while riding “The Beard’s” hot streak.

What hasn’t been said about James Harden this week? With tonight’s performance, the Rockets (10-3) finally beat the Grizzlies (7-5) with a 111-96 victory. The win also keeps Houston tied with Golden State for first in the West.

Here are tonight’s stats:

James Harden: 38 points, 8 assists, 4 rebounds

Eric Gordon: 26 points, 2 assists, 2 rebounds

Clint Capela: 7 points, 14 rebounds, 3 blocks

Points of the game

This was more than a moral victory for the Rockets. Tonight makes 5 wins in a row for Houston and they were finally able to score over 100 points against the Grizzlies. The Rockets 10-3 start is the best since the 1996-97 team that started 12-1 that season.

James Harden has been on fire during this 5 game winning streak. Over that span, Harden is averaging 37.8 points, 10.8 assists, and 5 rebounds per game. On top of that, he is making at least 6 threes and shooting 48 percent.

In addition to Harden’s effort, Eric Gordon continues to be the best starting sixth man in the league. EG has yet to disappoint this team and his efforts since the Chris Paul injury can’t go unnoticed. Gordon added another 6 three pointers to the totals and was efficient offensively.

Tonight also saw the return of Luc Mbah a Moute. While not a great night offensively, he was still able to provide the Rockets with 3 steals and some solid overall defense. P.J. Tucker joined his defensive side kick with 3 steals of his own and Trevor Ariza had 2 steals as well.

Speaking of defense, Clint Capela continues to be an awesome rim protector for the Rockets. With 3 blocks to his name tonight, he made sure to remind Memphis whose house it is. Capela’s rebounding has been superb as well. For the evening he tallied 14 total rebounds on a night he has to face Marc Gasol.

Overall, the Rockets offense and defense took a stride forward against a pesky Memphis squad. No doubt, the Grizz know how to be tough against Houston. However, when this team is locked in, not many can beat them. Turnovers are still a bit high, but should gradually lower as the offense improves.

Highlights

Let’s check out the highlights. Here are 2 of Harden’s 38 points:

¯_(ツ)_/¯#BEARDING pic.twitter.com/x65UjWChDi

— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) November 12, 2017

The man is balling out of his mind right now.

Ryan Anderson got things started in the 2nd half:

https://twitter.com/HoustonRockets/status/929536687348297728

Now that’s how you start a half! Thanks Ryno.

Clint being Clint with the blocked shot:

https://twitter.com/HoustonRockets/status/929530096045690880

Dominating big fella coming to your local NBA arena soon.

Finally, James putting the moves on the rookie, Dillon Brooks:

https://twitter.com/HoustonRockets/status/929518832028352512

It’s part of the NBA growing experience. Happens to everyone, young rook.

A confidence building win as the Rockets prepare to welcome back CP3 in a few weeks. Until then, this team is rolling and only getting better. Next up, Indiana on Sunday! The squad will travel to Indianapolis for a date with the Pacers.

Next: The Clint Capela era is upon us

Be sure to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for more Rockets!