Tuesday’s episode of Locked on Rockets breaks down key takeaways from the 140-71 victory by Houston in Monday’s preseason opener at Toyota Center against the Shanghai Sharks.
Segment one (2:00) addresses the quicker pace led by James Harden (10 points, 17 assists, 12 rebounds in 21 minutes) and Clint Capela (25 points, 10 rebounds in 19 minutes), and why it bodes well for the integration of Russell Westbrook down the road.
Segment two (18:15) explores the strong showing versus Shanghai by rookie guard Chris Clemons (21 points, 7/16 FG in 19 minutes) and whether he could make a push for a standard contract from the Rockets, rather than a two-way deal.
Segment three (29:00) recaps head coach Mike D’Antoni’s postgame praise of newcomer Ben McLemore (17 points, five three-pointers), and why the presence of McLemore and veteran Ryan Anderson could make it very tough for Anthony Bennett (out, knee tendinitis) to earn a roster spot in Houston.
Tune in to Tuesday's Locked on Rockets podcast (with Ben DuBose) for full analysis of Houston's preseason opener: