The Houston Rockets managed to best the Golden State Warriors once again at home with their 116-108 victory on Saturday night. The Rockets have followed up on their expressed desire to get the better of the Warriors throughout the 2017-18 NBA season.
Star guard James Harden has been an integral part of Houston’s victories over the defending champs. According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Harden even admitted the Rockets’ desire to finish the regular season as the top seed in the Western Conference:
“That’s what we’re rooting for. It’s not going to be easy. Every single game, we’re going to have to take it for ourselves and not relax. It’s not about who we’re playing. It’s about us and each and every game getting better.”
It may seem like a bit far-fetched to try and accumulate a better record than a team nearly two years removed from a 73-win season. However, Houston has managed to stay within striking distance halfway through the regular season.
The Rockets have done their part by defeating the Warriors in two out of their three matchups this season. It should be noted that Harden was unavailable in their loss to Golden State over two weeks ago.
Although “The Beard” was supposed to be on a minutes restriction upon making his return from a hamstring injury, he assumed his usual role as the team’s facilitator. Harden registered 22 points and eight assists in 35 minutes. He showed off his defensive prowess with two blocks and two steals as well. However, Houston still currently sits 3.5 games behind Golden State.
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