The Rockets had their best case scenario for Thursday night's game against the Timberwolves. James Harden was able to play through his rust in his first game since New Years Eve, while the other two Point Guards made up for it. James played only 26 minutes, shot 3-for-15, and scored 10 points, 7 assists 2 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 2 steals. Definitely not the Harden we are used to watching, but Eric Gordon stepped up big time while James struggled.
Eric Gordon hit seven 3s on his way to score 30 points against Minnesota. He also made a half court shot at the buzzer to give Houston a 19-point lead going into the 4th. The final score of the game was 116-98.
Chris Paul had a very efficient game, shooting 50% from the field, and finishing with 19 points, 9 assists, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals.
The "Big Men" Capela and Nene combined for 32 points and 13 rebounds. Luc Mbah a Moute scored 14 points, 8 of them coming in the first quarter.
Trevor Ariza and Gerald Green did not play due to their two-game suspension for the locker room incident in L.A. on Monday. They will also miss this Saturday's game against the Warriors at the Toyota Center.