Game two of the Western Conference Semi-Finals is tonight and the Houston Rockets are hoping to get a better handle on the game this time around.
Despite getting off to a good start and maintaining a lead that lasted through the end of the first half, the Rockets conceded game one with a score of 117-101.
A closer game was expected due to key player Chris Paul beong out with a hamstring injury and the Clippers only having two days of rest since their series with the Spurs. To compare, the Rockets had the better part of a week to rest after beating Dallas 4-1 in the series. It seems that the Clippers rhythm beat the Rockets rest as the LA-based team was able to shift their momentum from the San Antonio Spurs, the defending champions, to Houston Monday night.
The Rockets have had time to regroup and formulate a better game plan as the Clippers will be playing with the same starting lineup, as Doc Rivers reveals that Chris Paul’s return tonight is doubtful.
This is good news for the Rockets, a team that needs to get a better grip on Blake Griffin. The Clippers star had a triple-double with 26 points, 14 rebounds and13 assists on Monday. The Rockets also need to work on shooting from the line since they only shot 58% of free throws on Monday. Expect them to take more advantage of this tonight. This game is not a “must win” but it is crucial considering games three and four will be played in Los Angeles.
Without a win tonight the Rockets will have their backs against the wall to get the job done on the road before returning home for game five in Houston. The Clippers have proven they can go the distance against a veteran championship team so now it’s up to the Rockets to showcase the dominance they displayed against the Dallas Mavericks in the opening round.
The Los Angeles Clippers face the Houston Rockets tonight at 9:30e/8:30c on TNT.
