Space City Scoop
Fansided

Houston Rockets win huge game over a tough Raptors squad

By Michael Knight

HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 25: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors controls the ball defended by Kenneth Faried #35 of the Houston Rockets and PJ Tucker #17 in the second half at Toyota Center on January 25, 2019 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 25: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors controls the ball defended by Kenneth Faried #35 of the Houston Rockets and PJ Tucker #17 in the second half at Toyota Center on January 25, 2019 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

The Houston Rockets won a good one against the ever-tough Toronto Raptors. The team got some help from all over the roster in a nice victory.

The Houston Rockets just finished up beating the Toronto Raptors 121-119 in a game that was a lot less close than the score makes it look. The Rockets controller the game pretty-much throughout before blowing an 11-point lead in the closing minutes.

The Rockets now move up to 28-20 on the season and stay put in the fifth spot in the Western Conference. With games against the Magic and the Pelicans coming up next, the team should hit that 30-win mark soon.

Battle of the MVP candidates

This game featured two of the NBA’s current candidates for the Most Valuable Player award in James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. They both put on a show for their respective teams, scoring 35 and 32 points.

It still wasn’t Harden’s sharpest night, however. He had 35 points and 7 assists, but shot just 9/25 overall and 2/13 from deep. He relied too heavily on the 3 when he was hitting his floater all night. Thankfully, his teammates decided to show up.

Supporting cast

A strong mixture of scoring from the supporting cast on the Rockets was what won them this one. Eric Gordon, Kenneth Faried and P.J. Tucker were huge in the victory.

Eric Gordon tallied 24 points on a strong first half that got the Rockets in position to win. Kenneth Faried was huge throughout, but especially in the fourth quarter. His hustle was incredible and he finished with 21 points and 14 rebounds to go with 2 blocks. P.J. Tucker found himself on offense finally, putting up 18 points on 4/8 shooting from downtown.

The Rockets will be getting back Chris Paul next game, and his leadership is much-needed. The late game execution by the Rockets has been horrible in recent games, blowing leads to teams and occasionally, like tonight, lucking out and winning. Hopefully, that improves when CP3 returns.

Next. CP3 will return soon

Let’s go on a long winning streak, Rockets! This team is capable of it after beating a tough Raptors squad.

Home/Rockets News