Games 7 and 8 Preview: Houston Rockets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
by ak2themax on Jan 6, 2012 9:00 AM CST
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Yeah, you're getting one preview for the price of two. After all, the next two games are against the same team, so putting another preview tomorrow morning would be pointless. Also, I hear there's a football game on Saturday. Yeah, I'm excited to see the Lions play too but you guys all seem really hyped about it for some reason. Weird.
Game 1 of the two game series takes place tonight in OKC. Tomorrow night's game is at the Yote. The good news for the Rockets is that after this trip from hell, we get a nice long homestand go right back on the road to play the Bobcats and the Spurs, followed by a nice long homestand quick back-to-back at home, followed by a nice long homestand trip to Washington. Wait, when the hell are we going to get our nice long homestand?
Actually, it's not so much a homestand as a few groups of games at home. After the Spurs game next Wednesday, the Rockets will play host in nine of their next 11 games. In fact, all 11 are winnable games. The Spurs are in there twice, but sans Manu. Portland's in there, so I don't expect to win that but stranger things have happened (33-0 at home baby!). We get both Minny and Washington twice in that stretch. There are still three back-to-backs in there, so keep that in mind, too.
You guys know I love the Thunder and Scott Brooks. Also, this whole Russell Westbrook-Kevin Durant feud needs to be put to rest. It's a distraction for the franchise and it needs to end now. So, as goodwill ambassador for the Rockets, I'd like to extend the olive branch to OKC and take the root of their problems. That's right, folks! For one night only, I'll take Kevin Durant off their hands for OAL's precious Rice a Roni and Terrence Williams!
But wait!
If they call in the next 30 minutes, I'll also throw in Goran Dragic and take the rest of the cancer away. You know it! The Thunder can dump cancers Westbrook and Durant and make off like thieves! You won't get this offer in stores, and phones are ringing off the hook. But wait, we'll even throw in free shipping (er...trade exception?)!
Sam Presti, don't let this magnificent offer pass you by! /Advertisement
Back to seriousness, I love the Thunder and want them to succeed, but I have Bonzo to think of, so I'm including a Sonics video here. And no, it's not all Sonics. The Rockets won this game, so relax.
Greg Gumbel! Savage Garden playing in the background! Shawn Kemp! Gary Peyton! Clyde Drexler! Charles Barkley! Oh, and I guess Hakeem was there too. It's the NBA on NBC!
Rockets-Sonics NBA on NBC Intro (via jamjumpman)
Update: Courtney Lee out again, Lowry apparently injured his foot yesterday in practice and is a game-time decision. Seems fishy...but I trust Jason Friedman.
Update 2: Lowry officially ruled out. Dragic to start.
You know where to find the matchups:
Matchups:
PG: Kyle Lowry vs. Russell Westbrook:
I'm still trying to find out more about the Kyle Lowry stuff. Suffice it to say that from the Berman story this whole thing seems stupid, and I would say that even if it wasn't the best player on the Rockets. So, yeah. We've got more than a fair share of lawyers on this board, and I'm not going to pretend to be an expert here, so their opinions and thoughts have more weight than mine at this point. Hopefully it's not a distraction.
Westbrook is averaging 17/5/5 but is turning the ball over nearly five times per game. Um, just hand it off to Kevin when you don't know what to do, buddy.
Lowry came back to Earth a little bit against the Clippers but it certainly wasn't as if he played poorly. I'm calling this even, but I am saying that the home guard will be the better player in each game, evening it out over a two-game stretch.
Advantage: Even
SG: Kevin Martin vs. James Harden:
Thabo Sefolosha will start if he's not out (he has the flu, it seems), but he ain't the man at the 2 for the Thunder. That belongs to James Harden. I was a huge fan of his out of Arizona St. Outside of Westbrook, Harden is the only guy on the team that can create shots for other players on the team. He has great vision and is tied with Durant with the best PER on the team, if you're into that stuff.
I give up Kevin. Don't make me hate you. DRIVE. TO. THE. BASKET. If this doesn't change soon, I'll be heading over to Clutchfans and setting up some crazy trades to get you out of here. And I'm your biggest fan! You're Calvin! Patrick and I share Hobbes duties! Don't make me take this up with Watterson!
Maybe he can ask Durant how he's still getting to the line 7 times per game.
Advantage: Even
SF: Chase Budinger vs. Kevin Durant:
Any questions?
Advantage: Thunder
PF: Luis Scola vs. Serge Ibaka:
I wish Scola had a cool nickname like "Air Congo." And no, the Ice Cream Man doesn't count.
I just want to point out a couple of things that OAL put up in his post yesterday. Scola is averaging only 5 rebounds per game, which is the worst in his career. Even more troubling: Scola has attempted a grand total of eight free throws. In six games, when you're the best big man on the team? Can't happen. I know he's shooting lights out (54%), so he get a pass for now. But when the shooting slumps a little, he'll have to work down in the paint, something we haven't seen him do as much this season so far. Which is odd, since you'd think bringing in McHale would mean that Scola's post game would get even better.
Advantage: Rockets
C: Jordan Hill vs. Kendrick Perkins:
If you haven't watch the last couple of Rockets games (lucky you), here's the scoop: big men do really well against little men. Jordan Hill is a little man (for a big man). Samuel Dalembert is a big man, but likes playing like a little man on offense.
I don't think Perkins will dominate or anything. After all, he barely plays more than half of the game. But he'll get plenty of rebounds even though he's only averaging four per game and he'll get easy putbacks and essentially do all the things that we hate seeing other centers do to us.
I miss Chuck Hayes tremendously. This is the right direction for the team, but I just want his toughness on defense back.
Advantage: Thunder
---
Bench:
Thunder: Eric Maynor, James Harden (technically), Daequan Cook, Nick Collison, Nazr Mohammed
Rockets: Corndog, Showtime, Other Chase Budinger, Tweet-Will, Legit Center, Beast, P Piddy
Advantage: Even
Injuries:
Thunder: Sefolosha day-to-day? Not really sure.
Rockets: Courtney Lee out (probably both games, but not sure)
Prediction: Quick note: Remember, you need to make 2 predictions. I may throw up a predictions thread tomorrow morning just in case, but I think it adds a little spice to have to predict two games like this before the first game so you don't have an idea going into the second prediction. Here are mine below, which won't change unless there's an injury or something major happens. Take it easy this weekend folks! And Go Texans!
Game 1: Thunder 105-98
Game 2: Rockets 100-97
Make sure you get in on TCWHRO (we have to figure out another way to say that)'s fantasy basketball game. Details here. Just make your predictions in the comments, and maybe explain how you came to that conclusion so we have something to talk about.
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i dnt like our matchup here cuz they are athletic
and da fact dat we dnt play Defense dat good…..aint a good formula….jus sayin…….plus they got two nice scorers to our non defense…..its gonna be a fun game do….i love durant and westbrook is cool too…..but my fav is Harden and dat beart….dat man is crazy….
/////no more cuss words\\\\
put a D*ck in ur ear and F*ck wat u hurd
by mitmil22 on Jan 6, 2012 9:18 AM CST reply actions 3 recs
The beard is great.
My favorite one in sports.
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
Nice Preview(s)
Thunder are scary, they’re young, talented, and have a good role players.
Westbrook vs Lowry will be a good matchup and I can’t wait to see how Lowry plays with the news about him coming out.
My favorite player on The Thunder is Harden, he’s a very solid and good player. He can pass the ball, and when I say that, go watch the highlights from their recent games, he puts the ball on a zip-line to his team mates. He can shoot, and he can score. He’s damn good.
Durant is a scary matchup, I expect to see Twill on him since I don’t think Lee is playing.(Prove me wrong please)
My predictions:
@OKC – Rockets 95 OKC 109
@Hou – Rockets 103 OKC 110
Fun Fact about The Thunder: They played at their opponents pace more often than any team last year.
.
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
dat man harden is a beast
i like how he runs da pick and roll bro……he kinda do it like CP3 cuz he does it smooth
put a D*ck in ur ear and F*ck wat u hurd
by mitmil22 on Jan 6, 2012 9:26 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
So true
His handles are exceptional, and he’s probably the purest point guard they have on the team. No offense to Westbrook, who is an absolute beast of course. And I do like Eric Maynor a lot.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
yea westbrook is a sg in a pg body
and eric maynor is cool…..i still think dat harden could be a star…..hes smooth bro and westbrook is like choppy n out of control……i hate watchin dat……
put a D*ck in ur ear and F*ck wat u hurd
by mitmil22 on Jan 6, 2012 9:56 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Wow!
Your prediction for tonight was incredibly close! Just gave the Rockets too much credit.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
No
But I can’t ignore it. They were his team. I had to do something.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
I appreciate it. I happen to be rocking my Sonics hoodie right now.
I don’t agree with the whole “I hope the Thunder succeed”. As long as they have shared history I’d like them to fail to get a championship.
Sonicsgate: A movie about how the Sonics were stolen from Seattle.
Wait, when the hell are we going to get our nice long homestand?
Not until mid-late January. From the 17th until the 30th, the Rockets face NOLA, San Antonio, Minnesota twice, Washington, New York and Milwaukee. Of those, only the first Minnesota game is at home.
If the Rockets can’t go at least 4-3 in that span, we’re doomed. Need 5-2, probably.
j/k — we won’t know if we’re doomed until late February, at least.
Yeah I included that in the next part
It’s in that 9 home games in 11 group that’s coming up. We have a couple more 5-gamers at home too I think.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
I've done that far too many times myself to judge
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
Minny scares me.
They’ve looked really god lately.
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
Good*
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
Haha that works
They’ve only played one road game so far, but yeah they look really exciting.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
Sbnation produced an article about Lowry.
http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2012/1/6/2684573/kyle-lowry-houston-rocket-point-guard-archetype
Link ^
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
by OJ ATM on Jan 6, 2012 9:41 AM CST reply actions 1 recs
I believe the Thunder will just
run, jump and hustle us out of the building, both times, or else Westbrook really stabs Durant during his sleep (we don’t know who throws balls with killing intent in Thunder practices after all).
Game 1: Thunder by 104 – 94
Game 2: Thunder by 97 – 83
How is The Ice Cream Man not a legit nickname???
Would you like 1 or 2 scoops??? Ask Bynum what flavor(s) he got!!! LOL
Calling Luis the Ice Cream Man
Always gives me shivers like he’s a pervert or something. Obviously, it’s a weird stretch but I don’t think of his scoop shots. I think of him giving out ice cream out of a van or something.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
IS KYLE LOWRY gonna have to SMACK A B****???
If we are going to win, then yes
Game 1 – Thunder 110 – 89
Game 2 – Thunder 99-95
by Carlos_HoustonSportsFanatic on Jan 6, 2012 10:02 AM CST reply actions
These will be two hard games
and if we come out half stepping with no energy and no d then we will continue to get routed. Bud will get scorched by Durant, unless Durant has a bad night or is constantly double teamed. If we can’t stop the penetration we will also get scorched. I am still waiting to see our defense improve like McHale said. Not trying to cry over spilled milk but i still feel with Adelman we would be far ahead of where we are right now as a team.
by since86rocketsfan on Jan 6, 2012 10:32 AM CST reply actions
Sometimes you have to take a step back
To take two steps forward. I don’t think anyone expected immediate success from McHale, especially with a shorter camp and less time to practice during the season. I think having this season as a “practice run” will be great for him and us in the long run.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
Completely agree.
Let’s let the youth on this team gel and come together this season with an eye on the future, then look to make some moves next offseason.
The bird is struggling out of the egg. The egg is the world. Whoever wants to be born, must first destroy a world.
by Stupendous Man on Jan 6, 2012 10:47 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
Every coach in the league has
had a shorter camp and less practiice time. That is no excuse, especially with the exception of Hill we still have the same starting 5 as last year. Again i did not think we would start off 6 and 0, i am just concerned with the lack of energy and desire to play d. And you say this season is good practice for him, just gives him an excuse to half ass coach. He got plenty enough practice in Minny, and a better roster then Adelman had, its early, like i said him and the team need to step it up, because its no reason to get blown out like we have so far.
by since86rocketsfan on Jan 6, 2012 11:01 AM CST up reply actions
How many coaches were new to the situation
and had to deal with a vetoed trade? Mike Brown still has a good team even afterwards, but even the Lakers got off to a bad start. Implementing a system takes time, and the coaches that are new are all in tough situations now, but are any of them really succeeding?
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
And Mike Brown was an assistant in LA last year.
And, frankly, his team has a lot more talent at the top.
The closest comparison is Mark Jackson in Golden State. And they’re not doing well at all, either.
McHale’s new, he didn’t get much time to get a feel for his players, and the Rockets are playing a very tough opening schedule. There’s definitely cause for concern, but there’s no reason to despair yet.
Still, of the new coaches he was definitely in the best position
That’s a team that lost only Lamar Odom and Shannon Brown from last year. And how hard is it to coach that team if you’re somewhat decent at your job? Mike Brown isn’t a great coach but he’s got three great pieces there. And it’s clear he hasn’t changed too much of the system so far.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
It's not the record so much
its the lack of effort. Giving maximum effort, hustling and scrapping for loose balls, and playing with heart makes an average team overachieve, like last year, and the Laker playoff series. Not playing with these things make an average team average. If Martin does not want to be here, or play hard then bench him or trade him. Regardless the situation McHale has to adapt and keep the team focused. Adelman went through far more then what you are saying McHale had to. Let Scola be out for the year like Yao last year, and Lowry hurt for a long period like AB last year and then see. And also not have Dalembert and the old not improved inconsistent Jordan Hill.
by since86rocketsfan on Jan 6, 2012 11:58 AM CST up reply actions
How much glue are you huffing?
McHale comes in with a dedicated “We’re changing” message, pull a major trade that gets vetoed which causes changes there, has little to no offseason, two preseason games, an abridged schedule and a back to back to back early in the season. Adelman had time with his guys and practice for his situation ahead of time. You have GOT to be kidding me.
by BD34 on Jan 6, 2012 2:59 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
BD, if you read the guys earlier post
he brought up how it would be better if we had RA. More than likely he feels we shouldn’t have changed coaches and wants to point to these current results as evidence.
It’s really no different then people bringing up past players and any recent success they have. Regardless, they’re gone and they aren’t coming back.
Try having your heart ripped out when you hear your stupid NFL team’s owner is keeping his horrible GM and Coach when literally everyone from here to Bangladesh knows they should go. That is patience gone overboard.
"Listen here you beautiful bitch, I'm about to fuck you up with some truth" - Kenny Powers
Your situation in SD isn't far off from mine in Buffalo.
Gailey is coaching like a moron when the run is working and Wilson needs to demand better.
As for dealing with since, it’s just gonna be a major charge at the wall on this.
Speaking of the Bills
What was up with Stevie in the last game? Did Fitz forget who he was, like maybe that shit where people get hit and start speaking with an English accent? I was rooting for them dudes like crazy this year, they were my dark horse.
I am no stranger to disappoinment…
"Listen here you beautiful bitch, I'm about to fuck you up with some truth" - Kenny Powers
Im tired of your excuses
and proving you wrong over and over. Every time you create a post you admit that you was wrong about this , and wrong about that, but continue to question what i post. I have told you before, and i am not being cocky, but my basketball iq is far higher then yours. For some reason it takes you longer to see the whole picture like with Thabeet. I bet you still want him to start, because you believe he is our savior center. Instead of you cheerleading, or your girl below cheerleading, come up with solutions for our teams problems instead of always talking down, without leaving anything like you always do.
by since86rocketsfan on Jan 7, 2012 9:37 AM CST up reply actions
Going to issue this statement for what seems like the 40th time.
Instead of lashing out and insulting people, go ahead and post constructively rather than just posting the same insults consistently, it adds to the discussion and doesn’t violate the ToS (No personal attacks).
And yes, I do believe Thabeet needs more playing time at Center, particularly to get his endurance up because every man’s worst fear is stamina problems and right now, he has them.
For the 100 time,you will never get
it, and the truth hurts, if you call it insults then you need to look in the mirror. If he could play and be productive , dont you think he would be on the court. The ideal situation was the Laker game we are playing two seven footers and getting killed inside. Hill gets in early foul trouble as usual, dalembert is still not in shape, but McHale did not even give him a chance, they says a whole lot. Probaly after the season when he is gone you will finally see the whole picture, that he sucks.
by since86rocketsfan on Jan 7, 2012 10:23 AM CST up reply actions
Let's not discredit everything Mchale has gone through.
He went through an offseason from hell, only 2 pre season games and limited practices. How do you expect a team to look good when there was very limited time to implement a brand new offense and defense with players who were used to Rick’s offense. That alone is hard to over come. Then, you add in the voided trade which is something that has never happened before, btw, injuries to star players have happened before with Rick, it’s something you unfortunately plan for, a voided trade isn’t. Then there’s the schedule, do you really expect players who just got done playing 30-40 minutes 3 nights in a row to be diving into the stands for loose balls? I don’t. They’re fucking tired and they will be tired throughout this season probably, theres multiple B2Bs for this team this season with long road trips. We are a rebuilding team, and hate to break it to you, we aren’t as good or better than last year’s team despite what you think.
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
by OJ ATM on Jan 6, 2012 3:58 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
You did not read what
i wrote. Its not about being 6 and 0 are looking good, its about playing with effort. last nite at OKC again we came out dead, had no effort, played no d and got stomped. This is what i am trying to get yall to see, but i guess it will take longer for yall to see the whole picture. And the defense looks terrible, but lets not blame McHale because he has not had enough time, please.
by since86rocketsfan on Jan 7, 2012 9:41 AM CST up reply actions
And to add this a business,
trades happen all the time. Last year Baron Davis got traded from his hometown team to the worst team, and went there played hard instead of complaining. The same with Billups when he left Denver for NY, and he still played hard. I cant feel real bad because these players are making millions, so trust me they will be ok. Gasol and Bynum stay in trade talks but you would never know because they still play hard. Oh its so many back 2 backs, who cares they are professionials and supposed to be the best of the best, every team has a backto back to back, and several back @ backs we are not the only team. And if you read again I said McHale has a better roster then last year, so quote me right.
by since86rocketsfan on Jan 7, 2012 9:55 AM CST up reply actions
...and the lightning strikes.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGPK2PEIIzM&feature=youtube_gdata_player
The bird is struggling out of the egg. The egg is the world. Whoever wants to be born, must first destroy a world.
by Stupendous Man on Jan 6, 2012 10:48 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
Thunder win both.
109-101 1st
101-85 2nd
Sonicsgate: A movie about how the Sonics were stolen from Seattle.
Rockets win in H-town...
The Thunder is unbetabale in OKC But in H-Town will be different,,
I still Believe ,,
The Thunder will definitely take both games. But they’re a fun team to watch, so I won’t mind watching both losses as long as the Rockets give their all.
The bird is struggling out of the egg. The egg is the world. Whoever wants to be born, must first destroy a world.
by Stupendous Man on Jan 6, 2012 10:49 AM CST via mobile reply actions
I think we lose both games.
Game 1: 103-95
Game 2: 98-89
"Hakeem couldn't kick your ass cuz you were too
close kissin his!"- Sir Charles to Kenny Smith.
If we lose both games....
through our first 8, we would have played teams with a combined 29-14 record, including the 4-4 Lakers…..
If you can feel them, they are real.
It's definitely a tough schedule.
All the teams are playoff contenders if not locks as they stand right now, and with the exception of the Clippers game and maybe the Memphis game, the Rockets played all their opponents close.
The Rockets have a tough schedule throughout the year, however, and if they’re going to make the playoffs they need to take some big steps forward. They don’t have the luxury of playing a lot of games against the East this time around.
Breaking out the new olajuwon jersey for these games
Game 1: Houston wins 111-106
Game 2: Houston wins 97-96
Budinger on Durant....
Yikes, that’s going to be scary.
by TheDream34 on Jan 6, 2012 12:27 PM CST via mobile reply actions
It's only Durant. It'll be okay.
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
Better...
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
But I hate Russell Brand
So I would never call him that. I get the comparison, but no. I always liked the Serene Argentine but it’s too verbose I guess.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
My bro-in-law came to visit
doesn’t watch ball. Sat down with me and asked me when Razor Ramone started playing basketball. I almost choked on my beer.
"Listen here you beautiful bitch, I'm about to fuck you up with some truth" - Kenny Powers
i think dat maybe we could steal one at home
we play pretty good here bros…….
thunder 107- rockets 98
thunder 102 – rockets 105(cuz ima try n be there bros)
////red rowdies in dis female dawg(no cussin)\\\\\
put a D*ck in ur ear and F*ck wat u hurd
by mitmil22 on Jan 6, 2012 12:42 PM CST reply actions 1 recs
I think the Thunder take the next 2 games unfortunately, especially if Lowry isnt playing tonight
tonight:
117 Thunder – 101 Rockets
tomorrow:
97 Thunder – 94 Rockets
"I always keep a ball in the car. You never know."
-Hakeem Olajuwon
"Stern Sucks"
-Me
Is he officially out?
I heard game-time decision.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
Same here
Im just assuming he isnt playing tonight. Tomorrow may be another story.
"I always keep a ball in the car. You never know."
-Hakeem Olajuwon
"Stern Sucks"
-Me
And NOW he's officially out for tonight's game at least
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
if we are competitive with them this game, i'll be impressed
"I always keep a ball in the car. You never know."
-Hakeem Olajuwon
"Stern Sucks"
-Me
hmmm
You all clearly know NOTHING about the nba.
1) 198-5 houston
2) 3,491.33-16 houston
take that to vegas and thank me later bitches
(Or 112-96 okc & 102-106 rock)
"Never underestimate the heart of a champion"- Rudy T, all up in that azz
by ShookednShanghaied11 on Jan 6, 2012 1:48 PM CST via mobile reply actions 1 recs
We'll probably lose
But someone unexpected will have a game that will earn them more playing time (Parsons).
I hate david stern!
Playing with BRef's season finder:
So the Rockets FT/FGA is .138 right now, last in the league, and (as I pointed out yesterday) not even close to the next-worst team. So that was pretty bad, right? But it’s actually a lot worse, because this is the worst FT/FGA performance in league history.
This is kind of amazing, really. Of course, it’s early in the season, and it should be noted that several other teams are posting ridiculously low free throw totals. Still, something is wrong, and it goes beyond individual efforts and players.
i like the thunder in both, but i'm gonna hope the rockets pull out a tight one at home
game 1: thunder 104-91 rockets
game 2: rockets 105-103 thunder
I think this is a wild card
I think I need to hold off on these predictions as we don’t know who will be playing or how. I just don’t have any idea whose going to show up/ how the refs are going to call it.
by BuckeyeBob on Jan 6, 2012 4:42 PM CST via Android app reply actions
Loving this Tmac quote
" When you have God-given talent, I think that that kind of hinders your practice habits and that’s what I think it did to me. Had I not been so talented, I probably would have busted my (butt) in practice."
There's a lot of good stuff in that article.
Still, I can’t help feeling like selecting McGrady as the poster boy for wasted chances is at least partially a function of our own propensity as writers, observers, executives and fans to jam talented players into a hyperbolic chamber, imbue them with whatever dreams may come and then get all pissy when they don’t pop out, pure and perfect, exactly the way our imaginations envisioned.
This was a point I was trying to express two years ago when it became clear that McGrady (a) wasn’t the same guy anymore and (b) was no longer going to be a Rocket:
This is the way I think about T-Mac’s career (so far; admittedly, he might pull off a miracle and totally change his “legacy,” but in any case, his time in Houston is what it is). McGrady showed us that sometimes (most of the time, actually) your best isn’t quite good enough, but you have to find some meaning in that failure – you have to understand that sports and life involve more than “effort” or “heart.” Incidentally (or maybe not), the man the Rockets traded for Tracy had a very similar career path and legacy, albeit on a smaller level. Rockets fans should be used to this by now (Sampson, Francis, McGrady, Lucas… much-heralded players whose careers didn’t quite live up to our expectations), as should Houston sports fans in general (I know what I’m about to say will sound like blasphemy, but… Earl Campbell’s career wasn’t exactly the epitome of sporting success, folks, and neither were those of Nolan Ryan, Jeff Bagwell, or Craig Biggio). There are a lot more Jimmy Wynns in the world than Willy Mayses, but that doesn’t mean that Jimmy’s career lacks merit.
It’s good to see McGrady accepting his changed role and career. I’ve said before that I wouldn’t be able to do that and I think it demonstrates a great deal of personal strength on his part. I hope he’s able to parley his last years into some greater (team) success.
Im glad that he is at least able to admit he could have done better here with a better work ethic
Thats all you can really ask of the guy after he has left. I can understand why he is booed when he comes to Houston, but I wouldnt do it because although he didnt live up to his potential, he still gave us some good memories albiet with many bad ones in there as well.
"I always keep a ball in the car. You never know."
-Hakeem Olajuwon
"Stern Sucks"
-Me
by Rockets4LIFE on Jan 6, 2012 5:32 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
We continue to be bad on the road and good at home.
@OKC – Rockets 90 OKC 109
@Hou – Rockets 103 OKC 100
don't know what to think about these games
But i’ll give you my predictions
game 1: OKC 117 Rockets 95
game 2: Rockets 99 OKC 97 (this one i’ll be watching)
1-1 i’ll take that deal right now! :)
Reaaaaalllly want to play devil's advocate
And declare we take them both with fiery anger… but I just realized OKC lost the last 2 in a row. I highly doubt they’ll make it 3 in a row. Lowry is going to frustrate Westbrook, though. Hopefully that will translate into turnovers.
Tonight: OKC wins 101-92
Tomorrow: ROCKETS! win 104-98
Hello again, gentleman. Here are the new updated scores.
.Bonzo-160
Rockets4LIFE-147
sohum-142
ak2kthemaz-142
craigj007-137
OJ ATM-137
RiiseRockets-132
twinkilling0303-127
dech-127
jake_471-123
Rocketsfanforbasketballreasons88-122
johnsmith-118
Dmo_Htx-118
jbars-117
Rockets7-117
BuckeyeBob-117
BD34-116
steeler-hater-116
Carlos_HoustonSportsFanatic-116
Camouflage14-113
Mike Kerns-110
bone31crusher-110
AIDe2356-110
MeLioRate-110
Mellowman-110
tunatango-110
galicae-102
Irish Trasher-102
VBG-98
btrizzle25-98
AllenOU-96
Mannan Ali-96
chuckiepoo-96
makinmajik-96
TiEaB-96
Valiant1-96
Christopher Dion Harris-96
f22a4bandit-96
Bighaircut-96
Nike86-96
ShookednShanghaied11-96
TCWIR-94
olivarezq1-92
Xiane-92
lucneguye92-92
mitmil22-92
taylorrrohrman-92
Slackary-92
arnold p-84
For my own predictions? 102-90 OKC, then 95-90 Houston. Go Rockets!!!
"I’m not dumb. I just have a command of thoroughly useless information." Bill Watterson~Calvin and Hobbes
by The Chuckwagon has rolled on on Jan 6, 2012 5:34 PM CST reply actions
Nice on TCWIR!
Moving up I see! :)
"I always keep a ball in the car. You never know."
-Hakeem Olajuwon
"Stern Sucks"
-Me
Comeback starts here!
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
Slowly but surely!
"I’m not dumb. I just have a command of thoroughly useless information." Bill Watterson~Calvin and Hobbes
by The Chuckwagon has rolled on on Jan 7, 2012 8:13 AM CST up reply actions
RIGGED!
You gave us the plan last time when you said it’d be an inconspicuous rise. And no, I’m not just butthurt because I’m also getting whooped in fantasy basketball (Takes way more attention than fantasy football ever did!).
You need to make some trades bro!
"I always keep a ball in the car. You never know."
-Hakeem Olajuwon
"Stern Sucks"
-Me
Lowry officially ruled out
Per Friedman and Feigen.
Dragic will start. Twitter link in the article.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
gonna get destroyed
seen how much Lee was missed for defence the other nite imagin if we traded for Anthony! we may as well have put the ball in out own backet!
lose tonight with a score of 91 – 108
game 2 we lose a tighter game 98 – 110
Game 1: OKC 109 – HOU 95
GAME 2: HOU 99 – OKC 93
The content of the text above is provided for information purposes only. No claim is made as to the accuracy or authenticity of the content. The troll does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or the use of such information or advice) which is provided in the text above.
Wow!
You and OJ ATM were both really close! Both of you said 109-95 for the first game. Hopefully you’re right about tomorrow.
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
That is the reason I don't go to Battle Red Blog. I would be too rational and guys would flag my posts as spam.-batman713
I gamble on no KD
the have 5 games in 6 days i think
The content of the text above is provided for information purposes only. No claim is made as to the accuracy or authenticity of the content. The troll does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or the use of such information or advice) which is provided in the text above.
Copied me!
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
Well since Lowry is out
Dragic and Flynn have to step up and play well. We need some of these guys to bring their trade values up because we all know someone is gonna be gone by the trade deadline. Hill needs to step up big time for pete sake. I like the rebounding but do something else please. Martin, Williams, and Budinger need to let their nuts drop and player harder at least. Scola needs rebound like a PF not a SG. Dalembert and Patterson need to play with more energy. Parsons needs to continue his surprising play. Thabeet must really suck at practice because he gets no playing time. Adrien needs to watch Chuck Hayes film. I think I covered everyone.
I hate david stern!
We suck with him too.
I hate david stern!
by batman713 on Jan 7, 2012 11:16 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
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