3 Ways the Houston Rockets can re-gain control of the series

2. Get P.J. Tucker and Eric Gordon more involved offensively

In Game 2, P.J. Tucker and Eric Gordon arguably played their best games since entering the bubble. Tucker scored 18 points on 7-for-10 shooting from the floor and he had his patented corner three on point, making 4-for-7 from beyond the arc. He also added 11 huge rebounds and continued to put out his best effort on the defensive end against the taller Anthony Davis.

Gordon had his three-ball working from every spot in the game. He knocked down six threes for a total of 24 points and he dished out three assists in 36 minutes of play.

Both of these guys are called upon to do the things they do best. Gordon is known for his “microwave” style of scoring and Tucker is known for his tough defense and leadership.

Every opponent knows Harden and Westbrook will have their moments, but when Gordon can score at a consistent rate and Tucker can hit his shots and continue to be a positive example on defense, the Rockets can put the Lakers at a huge disadvantage like they did when they stormed back from the Lakers’ 21-point lead.

The Rockets played well enough to win Game 2 largely in part of the efforts from Tucker and Gordon, and if Mike D’Antoni can find ways to keep them incorporated in the offense, they’ll be a huge boost for the entire team and it’ll make them more unpredictable on the offensive end.

Next: No. 1