Houston Rockets: James Harden’s 15 most captivating performances

8. January 14, 2019

Line: 57 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steal, 17-33 field goals, 17-18 free throws, +25

If January 16 was an example of Harden trying to do it all and lose, then January 14 is an example of Harden trying to do it all and win.

Facing a reeling Memphis Grizzlies team Harden — playing without options two, three and four on the roster — dropped a 57-spot.

The Beard was not efficient, going 6-15 from beyond the arc and 17-33 overall. Yet where he recouped the points was at the free-throw line, hitting 17 of 18 shots from the charity stripe. In 34 minutes he was +25 in the 18 point win, and it wasn’t even that close.

Harden’s 2018-19 scoring streak of consecutive 30-point games is mind-boggling.

With little help and the full attention of the defense, he is still finding ways to excel. While he couldn’t win every game without Paul and Capela, winning any demonstrates his ability to create offense.

The Rockets and Harden are on national television a fair amount, given their marketable star, large market and high-powered offense.

When they are not, the popular term “League Pass Alert” should apply to the Rockets every game on their roster and fans should tune in and enjoy the Harden experience.

Next: November 26, 2018