Rockets vs. Raptors recap: Toronto ends 6-game winning streak

The Houston Rockets comeback fell short as the Toronto Raptors hang on and win 129-113.

The Rockets (11-4) did not look like the team that won 6 games in a row. While Houston tried to come back late, the Toronto Raptors (8-5) hung on thanks to DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry.

Here are some stats from last night:

James Harden: 38 points, 11 assists, 6 rebounds

Trevor Ariza: 20 points, 2 assists, 8 rebounds

Clint Capela: 11 points, 11 rebounds

DeMar DeRozan: 27 points, 5 assists, 6 rebounds

Points of the game

Overall, it just wasn’t the Rockets’ night. While Trevor Ariza scored 20 points, the rest of the offense lacked energy and efficiency. The 129 points are the most given up by the Rockets so far this season. The only team to break 120 points against Houston was Golden State.

However, James Harden still dropped 38 points despite the lack of help. Eric Gordon shot 3/12 from the field overall and the Rockets as a whole struggled once again from 3-point range, shooting 30.8%.

Another important event during the game was the ejection of P.J. Tucker. After receiving two techs, Tucker was dismissed during the 3rd quarter and that left a big void in the Rockets bench unit. The Houston defense just couldn’t contain the Raptors from the perimeter, where they shot over 45% for the evening.

This game is a reminder that trading for Chris Paul was very important. However, the team as a whole still has much to learn and grow from defensively as the season progresses.

Even in a loss, there are still some highlights that provided bright spots during the game.

Highlights

Let’s take a look at some of the best moments of the game. Beginning with Harden’s awesome Euro step:

https://twitter.com/HoustonRockets/status/930631971474198528

Pascal Siakam may need ankle surgery and therapy after that.

Next is Tarik Black with the blocked shot on C.J. Miles:

https://twitter.com/HoustonRockets/status/930614913634095104

An underrated defender, Black reminded Miles of his shot blocking ability.

Finally, Harden and Luc Mbah a Moute connect for a 3-pointer and the assist:

Luuuuuc for 3! pic.twitter.com/CIPFihIXkV

— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) November 15, 2017

“Excuse me, I’ll just take this ball and hit this 3-pointer. Thank you.”

Props to the Raptors for being the more aggressive team. Toronto made shots, defended enough to hang on, and frustrated the Rockets all night. Can’t win them all. On to the next one in Phoenix on Thursday.

Next: What Chris Paul's return brings to the Rockets

Stay tuned and follow us on Twitter while also liking us on Facebook for more Rockets!