Houston Rockets

Houston Rockets Get Sweet Revenge on Lakers

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 12:33 p.m. ET

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Dec 7, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) cheers for his team on the bench against the Los Angeles Lakers in the second half at Toyota Center. The Houston Rockets won 134 to 95. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Eric Gordon had an outstanding night with 26 points (8-12 3-point field goals) as the Houston Rockets throttled the Los Angeles Lakers.

HoustonRockets134

The Houston Rockets cruised to their fourth consecutive win over the Los Angeles Lakers, Wednesday night, at the Toyota Center. Following the nail-biting victory over the Boston Celtics, the Rockets ended their two-game homestand against the Lakers in blowout fashion.

As expected, the Rockets came out and took care of business early. Behind a combined 21 first quarter points by James Harden (10) and Eric Gordon (12), Houston jumped out to a commanding 43-27 lead.

Despite watching their lead grow as much as 18, Houston started to underestimate the heart of the Lakers. As they took their foot off the accelerator, the Lakers outscored Houston 28-24 and trailed 67-55 at halftime with Lou Williams leading the way.

Unlike their most recent games when up big at the half, the Rockets never gave the Lakers new life in the second half. Houston outscored Los Angeles 39-22 and held a 106-77 lead after the third quarter.

And after another 29 point quarter, the Rockets sailed smoothly to their largest victory over the Lakers in Franchise history.

Although they shot 53.8% percent from the field, the Rockets had their best defensive performance of the season. During the first quarter, Houston forced Los Angeles to commit nine turnovers and converted 15 points off of them. By the night end, the Rockets ended the game with a season-high 20 steals.

Dec 7, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; The ball follows through after Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) dunks against the Los Angeles Lakers in the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Rockets Starting Front Court

Clint Capela

C, Houston Rockets

B-It was another subpar performance against the Lakers. Yet, better than Monday night. He found his niche early in the game with two huge dunks over Los Angeles big men. And had a solid night on the offensive end. However, his defensive performance was pretty good, but I felt I wanted to see more. Aside from his defensive performance, still a great game. 12 points, 9 rebounds, 2 blocks, Plus/Minus (+16).

Ryan Anderson

PF, Houston Rockets

CIf one was to look up the definition of inconsistency in the Webster dictionary, perhaps they may run across a picture of Ryan Anderson. After playing like an All-Star throughout their five-game road trip, this was the second game where Anderson could not find his mojo for anything. It’s clear that Anderson has fallen into a shooting funk with every shot bouncing off the back iron. Not only did he struggle offensively, but Anderson’s defense was terrible. He allowed Julius Randle to do anything he wanted down on the low post. 12 points, 4 rebounds, Plus/Minus (+20)

Trevor Ariza

SF, Houston Rockets

B+Without a tough defensive assignment against the Lakers, Trevor Ariza had a fairly easy game. Against his former team, the quiet assassin had a great night on the offensive end. And one could argue that this was his most efficient night from the field. Overall, another great game for the Ironman. 11 points, 2 rebounds, 3 steals, Plus/Minus (+22).Next: Rockets Starting BackCourt

Dec 7, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Larry Nance Jr. (7) rebounds the ball in front of Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley (2) in the second quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Rockets Starting BackCourt

Patrick Beverley

SG, Houston Rockets

ABy far this was Patrick Beverley’s best game of the season. He had a well-rounded game on both ends of the floor. As well as ending with a season-high in assists. Overall, great night for Beverley. 10 points, 12 assists, 7 rebounds, 3 steals, Plus/Minus (+30).

James Harden

PG, Houston Rockets

AWith the exploding performance coming from his backcourt mate, it was a quiet night for James Harden. Still, though, the Beard had another spectacular game against his hometown. Much like his backcourt mate, the Lakers had no answer for Harden who scored 16 first half points. Of course, like Michael Jackson with the Jacksons, Harden was not to be outdone by his backcourt mate for long. He led all player in the third quarter with nine points. And after a 29 point lead heading into the fourth, Harden deserved a much-needed rest. Overall, one of Harden’s most efficient games of the year. 25 points, 8 assists, 6 rebounds, 4 steals, Plus/Minus (+19).Next: Best Bench/Opponent

Dec 7, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Louis Williams (23) dribbles against Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) in the second half at Toyota Center. The Houston Rockets won 134 to 95. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Best Bench/Opponent

Eric Gordon

SG, Houston Rockets

A+Perhaps playing against another candidate for Sixth Man of the Year brought the best out of Eric Gordon. At this point, I think Gordon deserve a spot in this year’s All-Star game! Gordon came out as hot as Klay Thompson scoring 12 points on 5-for-6 shooting in the first quarter. His performance was so spectacular, he overshadowed James Harden for the first time this season. What else can you expect for a guy who scored a career-best eight triples in a single game? 26 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, Plus/Minus (+28).

Lou Williams

SG, Los Angeles Lakers

Up next up for the Houston Rockets, the take their four-game winning streak to Oklahoma City, to face the relentless Russell Westbrook and the Thunder.

Enjoy the season Red Nation and be sure to stay connected with Space City Scoop as our amazing team of writers keep you abreast of all things Houston Rockets

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