Game 25 Preview: Houston Rockets vs. Denver Nuggets
by Patrick Harrel on Feb 6, 2012 8:00 AM CST
in Game Previews
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PrintThe last time the Rockets and the Nuggets faced off, Carmelo Anthony was the Nuggets' star, Danilo Gallinari, Timofey Mozgov, Wilson Chandler, and Raymond Felton were with the Knicks, and the Rockets were wondering what to do with Aaron Brooks.
Since then, Gallinari, Mozgov, Chandler, and Felton went to the Nuggets, the Nuggets traded Felton to Portland, and Chandler signed in China. Aaron Brooks ended up in Phoenix, bringing us to a match-up of teams that we have never seen before.
A few days ago, our friend and regular previewer ak2themax noted that this stretch of games had a certain "reunion tour" feel to it. First the Rockets got to play former star power forward/center/small forward/three point specialist Jared Jeffries and the Knicks at home, and then they enjoyed a pair of games against ex-coach Rick Adelman.
Tonight, the Rockets get to face another former star tweener big man, DeMarre Carroll. He of 11 minutes played as a Rocket is enjoying much more time on the floor with the Nuggets, racking up a staggering 16 minutes in Denver's first 24 games. At this rate, he'll be a 40 minute a night player by the time he's 70. By the way, he's shooting 100% from the floor, a remarkable 6-6. Future star?
(Note: Carroll was waived on Saturday, let's hope he joins a team that appreciates him for who he is).
On top of the bittersweet reunion with Carroll, the Rockets meet a man who was almost theirs, Nene. The immensely strong and quick big man was supposed to fall into our lap after we got Pau Gasol for a package headlined by Kevin Martin and Luis Scola.
I'll leave it at that for now; we Rockets fans don't like to make a big deal over the league management's perceived marginalization of the team.
With all that said, the Rockets desperately need a win tonight to kick start some momentum on a tough road trip. Playing six games in a row on the road is a tough task for any team, and it's even tougher for a Western Conference squad. Jump for the match-ups and prediction!
Matchups:
PG: Kyle Lowry vs. Ty Lawson
Lowry's has been getting his fair share of really good PG match-ups in recent days. He's faced Ricky Rubio (twice), Steve Nash, Tony Parker, and now he takes on Ty Lawson, another one of the great young point guards this league has to offer.
Both are undersized point guards who can do a little bit of everything on the offensive end. Though Lowry has the edge in assists and rebounds, Lawson's efficiency makes them near-equals on the offensive end.
Defensively, Lowry has the edge. Though Lawson is quick, he struggles against stronger guards and chases steals to little avail at times. It's close, but Lowry gets the slight edge.
Advantage: Rockets
SG: Kevin Martin vs. Arron Afflalo
Arron Afflalo worries me. Not because I think he'll light up Kevin Martin and go for 30, but rather that he got a 5 year, $43 million contract last off-season. He's a solid defensive wing with a good catch-and-shoot game, but he's neither an excellent athlete nor a creator of offense. He's the quintessential role player, a guy any team would want, but at $43 million? Maybe not.
He's the reason why I thought the Rockets should've pushed harder to extend Courtney Lee this January. The market dictated an offer in that range for Afflalo, and the Nuggets made it so that they could use their cap room and bring him back. Let's hope that with more time and fewer teams under the cap, Lee won't get a godfather offer that the Rockets will struggle to match.
Anyway, while Afflalo is the more complete player, Kevin Martin's elite scoring gives him the edge. Saturday night was a nightmare for Martin as he went 1-10 and looked completely lost. He'd best rebound from that, or the Rockets' reactionary fan base will be on him in no time.
UPDATE: Arron Afflalo is out tonight. Julyan Stone will likely start in his place.
Advantage: Rockets
SF: Chandler Parsons vs. Danilo Gallinari
There are few things I find more aesthetically pleasing on the basketball court than a player who stands 6'10" and still hit three pointers with ease. I always loved watching Peja Stojakovic shoot the ball, and the same is true for Danilo Gallinari.
In his fourth season, Gallinari has blossomed. Despite a shot that is still struggling to find its mark, Gallinari is helping the Nuggets immensely by getting out in transition, running the pick-and-roll, and cutting to the basket without the ball. He got $42 million over the next four years to keep doing that, and the Nuggets are unlikely to regret making that commitment.
Parsons has been playing decent defense and knocking down a few more jumpers lately, but he'll be faced with a tough challenge in Gallinari.
Advantage: Nuggets
PF: Luis Scola vs. Nene
*sigh*
Nene was supposed to be ours. After landing Pau Gasol to play in the middle for us, signing Nene was the next domino to fall in a whirlwind of moves that would've propelled the Rockets into contention in the West. But, that's all in the past, it's not like we're bitter or anything about the whole incident.
As much of a disappointment as it was not to land Gasol and Nene, both have seriously underperformed relative to expectations this season. Nene's scoring output hasn't really suffered as he's getting more shots without Carmelo, but his trademark efficiency hasn't been there. Still, he's one of the strongest and quickest big men around, and that gives him an advantage over most power forwards in the league.
Scola is coming off one of his best offensive games of the season, and let's hope a facial contusion won't keep him from playing his best ball.
UPDATE: Nene is reportedly out tonight with a foot injury. Kenneth Faried appears to be getting the start, leaving Karl's bench rotations intact.
Advantage: Nuggets Rockets
C: Samuel Dalembert vs. Kosta Koufos
Timofey Mozgov, the regular starter, has been out after suffering a painful looking ankle injury against Los Angeles a few days ago. According to Chris Dempsey of the Denver Post, he will not play. Kosta Koufos started in his place against Portland, and he'll likely do so again against the Rockets.
Samuel Dalembert has been going through a mini-slump, failing to score more than 4 points in the last three contests, but he's still making his presence known on the defensive side of the ball. Look for him to match-up against Nene, who is more of an offensive threat.
Koufos is a perfectly adequate backup with a nice touch around the rim. There's not too much more in his story.
Advantage: Rockets
Bench:
Rockets: Courtney Lee, Goran Dragic, Chase Budinger, Patrick Patterson, Jordan Hill
Nuggets: Al Harrington, Andre Miller, Rudy Fernandez, Chris Andersen, Corey Brewer
Harrington is a 6th man of the year candidate, Andre Miller refuses to slow down, and the Birdman is wreaking havoc as always. The Rockets bench will have to step it up to match one of the better bench lineups in the league.
Advantage: Nuggets
Prediction: Nuggets win 106-96
With the Nuggets injuries, I predict the Rockets to get the upset 102-91.
Useful Links:
Remember to leave a prediction in the comments if you're competing in TCWHRO's prediction contest. Best of luck!
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Just FYI, DeMarre Carroll was waived by Denver on Saturday.
So I don’t think we’ll be seeing him play.
should be a good game
few interesting facts nuggets are 7-9 in conference games only team in top 8 in west wit that losing record!
they play a fast paced game might be gettin tired from their rough schedule
29th loss vs clippers 109-105,
31st loss @ griz 97-100,
2nd win @ clippers 112-91,
3rd loss vs lakers 93-89,
4th loss @ blazers 97-117
i think it is winnable need to speed up the offence we seem very slow pushin the ball after a defensive rebound but wit our current defense we wont win rockets lose 96-115
As a Nuggets fan
The Rockets worry me because of 1. Luis Scola and 2) their ability to slow down the Nuggets fast breaks. I would have to think long and hard whether I’d want Nene or Scola on my team. Yes Nene has foot speed but he is a marshmellow who gets beat like a drum against taller players. Scola is crafty, has more post moves, a better jump shot and is a better rebounder. Scola is averaging 15 points and 6 rebounds, Nene, who can’t shoot free throws either, is at 13 and 8, and the 8 is because he is basically our center. He is listed at 6-11 and at best stands 6-9. Watch them on the court. Gallo is taller than Nene. Are you sure you really wanted him? Scola is a Nuggets killer. The one thing that may have us winning by 10 tonight is the bench. It is really deep. Bird btw, is wasting away, logging multiple DNPs. His terrible fundamentals have caught up to him.
"When I played, this is how I liked to play," Karl said. "It’s a combination of North Carolina, Phoenix Suns, Doug Moe. There is a commitment to running all the time."
Smith's mistakes throughout the series have bothered Karl. "And then, of course the one with eight seconds to go, from 50 feet," Karl said. "I just love the dignity of the game being insulted right in front of me."
by Plea for Intelligence on Feb 6, 2012 11:59 AM CST up reply actions
Nice Post
Interesting because Scola has also had a down year. He’s been a turnover machine and sort of a black hole once the ball has gone into him in the post. He’s been picking it up though now.
Nene has been a little overrated. He is fluid looking though and there aren’t many centers like that. He is better defensively than Scola though.
Watching a couple of Nuggets games the person who surprised me and scares me teh most is Al Harrington. He seems to always be in the right place at the right time.
Harrington came in uninjured this year with 8% body fat
He has been one of our 3 best players and is especially good on the dribble drive-pass, which is what this offense is built around, but lately reverting to his Knick days of up-chucking it from 25 feet with no one under to get the rebound.
"When I played, this is how I liked to play," Karl said. "It’s a combination of North Carolina, Phoenix Suns, Doug Moe. There is a commitment to running all the time."
Smith's mistakes throughout the series have bothered Karl. "And then, of course the one with eight seconds to go, from 50 feet," Karl said. "I just love the dignity of the game being insulted right in front of me."
by Plea for Intelligence on Feb 6, 2012 12:35 PM CST up reply actions
Nene is out tonight with a foot injury.
At the end of the day, you’d want Nene. Scola has knee issues and he’s a red carpet defensively regardless fo the size of the player he’s guarding. Nene could benefit from having an actual center, Scola did his best work with one but the decline has already started.
Maireann croí éadrom i bhfad.
Agree with this
Also thanks for coming over here, Plea for Intelligence. This is my favorite part about SB Nation-the interaction with so many fans from so many teams. And seeing that not everyone is an asshole always restores faith in humanity.
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
Agree
Nene dominates other power forwards but gets dominated by true centers. Fortunately Andrew Bynum doesn’t play for every team. Yes confirmed that Mozgov, Afflalo and Nene are all out tonight. This doesn’t really matter because Moz played about 15 minutes and Afflalo is not back to speed yet due to injuries. The Nuggets will do what George does every night: Go Small Ball. Within 8 minutes Dre and Harrington will be in the game. Koufous will actually have to play some minutes, but don’t be surprised to see a line-up of Dre, Lawson, Corey Brewer/Rudy and Harrington playing center for large portions of the game. GK thinks it makes the Nuggets play faster. Bird will have to get some run, and you’ll see him give up his position on defense, then chase the guy to block his shot. We are way over that crap in Denver. Still, he plays decently at home so he can do his PR stunts. Sub to watch: Kenneth Faried. He is a little dude but can jump out of the gym and has a big motor. GK won’t play him because he’s a rookie, but he is really entertaining and effective.
I didn’t realize that Scola is taking the Birdman inevitable decline. As I said, I always loved his game. I’ll watch him closely tonight.
"When I played, this is how I liked to play," Karl said. "It’s a combination of North Carolina, Phoenix Suns, Doug Moe. There is a commitment to running all the time."
Smith's mistakes throughout the series have bothered Karl. "And then, of course the one with eight seconds to go, from 50 feet," Karl said. "I just love the dignity of the game being insulted right in front of me."
by Plea for Intelligence on Feb 6, 2012 12:32 PM CST up reply actions
Faried
Loved him at Morehead State. Hope he gets some burn tonight with Nene out.
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
Ok, the Houston game has become the most interesting of the year
Faried will start along with UTEP rookie Julyan Stone (tall, good defense, no jump shot, good passer) and Kosta Koufus, the big Greek from Ohio State. Denver Stiffs have been begging to see Faried play but haven’t because GK breaks rookies down mentally before rebuilding them, a la the Marines. His teammate nickname is “Bounce.” This dude is probably about as tall as Charles Barkley, maybe 6-4. Yet I am optimistic he can make change from the top of the backboard. His first NBA bucket.
"When I played, this is how I liked to play," Karl said. "It’s a combination of North Carolina, Phoenix Suns, Doug Moe. There is a commitment to running all the time."
Smith's mistakes throughout the series have bothered Karl. "And then, of course the one with eight seconds to go, from 50 feet," Karl said. "I just love the dignity of the game being insulted right in front of me."
by Plea for Intelligence on Feb 6, 2012 1:09 PM CST up reply actions
Corey Brewer's dad passed
Condolences, Corey. So he’s out too. He gets a lot of minutes.
"When I played, this is how I liked to play," Karl said. "It’s a combination of North Carolina, Phoenix Suns, Doug Moe. There is a commitment to running all the time."
Smith's mistakes throughout the series have bothered Karl. "And then, of course the one with eight seconds to go, from 50 feet," Karl said. "I just love the dignity of the game being insulted right in front of me."
by Plea for Intelligence on Feb 6, 2012 1:24 PM CST up reply actions
R.I.P. Mr Brewer
Just read the SBNation article on it
Not much detail to what happened, but it does mention it was sudden. That’s terrible. Losing your dad that young is tragic. I hope he can bounce back soon.
The video is sick
I wanted him to stare at his hand Booker T style after the dunk, and I haven’t watched wrestling in like 10 years now.
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'm gonna go with Nuggets win 108 to 100
I’ll handle the recap tonight. I just don’t feel the Rockets will be able to handle the Nuggets attack. The defense is flimsy in general and I don’t trust my Rockets.
Maireann croí éadrom i bhfad.
Rockets win 97-92
Gallinari will have a off night, Harrington will brick shots and Kevin and Sammy comes back with a strong game.
A void? I see no void!
The fanboy in me
Wants the Rockets to rally around the bullshit stomp and kick it up and go on a bit of a winning streak.
It seems like the stomp
Ignited Lowry and Scola, as Patrick said in his recap. Remember, in addition to being competitors in general, they’re close too. Lowry once said that he will always feel tied to Scola because they both got their big contracts at the same time. So you piss off Luis, you piss off Lowry it seems. And hopefully it pisses everyone else off too.
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 u get that right
I say you get honorary first place in the TCWHROG. Seriously.
<?php
function get_status($IrishThrasher89, $hyperlinks = true) {
$c = curl_init();
curl_setopt($c, CURLOPT_URL, “http://twitter.com/statuses/user_timeline/$IrishThrasher89.xml?count=1”);
curl_setopt($c, CURLOPT_RETURNTRANSFER, 1);
$src = curl_exec($c);
curl_close($c);
preg_match(‘/(.*)<\/text>/’, $src, $m);
$status = htmlentities($m1);
if( $hyperlinks ) $status = ereg_replace(“[[:alpha:]]://[^<>[:space:]][[:alnum:]/]”, “”\\0\“>\\0”, $status);
return($status);
}
?>
I gotta learn that
as well. Got a nice tutorial or two?
I'm usually the "Hey ! Don't underestimate our bench...
And give us the advantage" Guy (Phoenix, Washington…) but damn, their bench looks good.
Harrington 6th MOY candidat, Dre Miller still got it, Rudy Fernandez’s having a great season and the Birdman… Don’t forget about Corey “50 feet buzzer beater” Brewer too…
by RiiseRockets on Feb 6, 2012 11:07 AM CST via mobile reply actions
nene, affalo, and mozgov
Are all out, changing my prediction to 95-85 rockets
by Christopher Dion Harris on Feb 6, 2012 12:32 PM CST via iPhone app up reply actions
Nuggets 110-Rockets93
I hope I am wrong but we need to save the starters when it starts getting ugly. We need to approach this as a much needed practice against better compitition.
Want to change my prediction.Just saw about the players missing tonight. Rockets sould win. Rockets 103-96.
Small ball goes to our strengths. Hope the Rockets take advantage and get this road win.
Re Lee's non-extension
Interesting that we didn’t hear the usual “the Rockets don’t extend contracts” BS this time around. makes me wonder if there really was such a policy,or if it was the team’s nice way of saying we don’t think you’re worth what you’re asking for.
There were reports that Lee and the Rockets were far apart on the extension. I’d bet Lee was asking for something in the $7-8mil/yr range(see Afflolo,Thorton,Reddick,etc.) and the Rockets were thinking more along Lowry-type deal. Let’s be honest,you can’t pay Lee $7-8mil to be a back-up,that’s starter pay. And if Martin went into the tank because of his yes he’s traded,oh no he’s not situation,how would he react for rest of season knowing he’s gone as soon as Rockets find a buyer?
I think...
The rockets may be softening their stance on that a bit. They’ve been getting a bad rep by some agents (this comes from ingram, so take it for what it’s worth) and may be changing their way of doing business.
by Christopher Dion Harris on Feb 6, 2012 12:37 PM CST via iPhone app up reply actions
Won't lee be a Restrcted Free Agent. If so, I expect them to wait and see what other teams offer like they did Kyle.
That would make sense unless he agreed to less than what they felt others would offer.
But it would have been big for 2012 Cap Space
Lee’s Cap Hold is some $5.5mil.
If they had extended his rookie deal,he would make only some $3.2mil+ in 2012 with the extension kicking in the following yr. The Team would have shaved some $2.3mil off their Cap.
Nuggets win 113-91
On a side note, does anyone around here watch soccer? I watched the Man U game yesterday and watched another champions league game a couple of weeks ago…what channels do the games come on? I’ve only been able to see it on Fox on Sunday morning
Nene is out by the way
left heel strain
by danielcp0303 on Feb 6, 2012 12:00 PM CST up reply actions
These are my comments btw, logged in with the wrong account
Nuggets win 113-91
by twinkilling0303 on Feb 6, 2012 1:08 PM CST up reply actions
Im gonna change it now because of the injuries
Rockets win 102-97. Im so sorry Chuckwagon…this is my final one for this game, swear to God
by twinkilling0303 on Feb 6, 2012 1:14 PM CST up reply actions
AARRGGHH!!!!!
"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 Feb 6, 2012 4:39 PM CST up reply actions
It's all gravy!
"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 Feb 6, 2012 5:48 PM CST up reply actions
I'm being ballsy and keeping my prediction.
You’re in my sights if I come away with this.
Maireann croí éadrom i bhfad.
I knew my luck would run out
I love contests but I also hate saying the Rockets are gonna lose. Usually when I think it’s a coin flip, I just take the Rockets. I’m also horrible at picking scores, so I’ll probably be out of the top 10 soon enough. You’ll be top 5 in a few days
by twinkilling0303 on Feb 6, 2012 6:08 PM CST up reply actions
I think I'm losing ground tonight actually.
The injuries and my stubbornness is going to bite me in the ass tonight.
Maireann croí éadrom i bhfad.
The first few rounds are usually only on Fox Soccer
And FSN will sometimes get a game or two. Then once you get down to the final 8 or so, ESPN picks up coverage and pretty much shows every game live, which is great. Though I do think Fox has the rights to final. They did last year. If they do again, I advise against watching any pregame festivities and just stick to the match itself.
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 looked on their website
and it doesn’t have any of the games coming on in america…I figured that wasn’t true. I don’t think I get Fox Soccer, I think that’s a premium channel on direct tv. So that kinda sucks. I’m really starting to get into it, that Man U game was crazy yesterday.
by twinkilling0303 on Feb 6, 2012 1:12 PM CST up reply actions
No joke
I actually started following when they were down 0-3. Granted, 2 PKs doesn’t help make the game “better” but at least one was definitely a stonewall penalty, and even though I don’t like Chicharito, his goal was earned since Man U dominated the second half after Chelsea went up 3.
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 just don't like the no winning thing
gonna take me a while to get use to
by twinkilling0303 on Feb 6, 2012 4:03 PM CST up reply actions
Well that's why
for the Champions League I usually just watch the second of the home-and-home series that they do starting in the round of 16 (I think), since there can’t be a tie on aggregate if away goals are the same. At least the possibility of 30 minutes +PKs is on the table. For the regular season EPL, La Liga, etc. it just makes sense to end in a tie. More chances for injury in a regular season game is folly.
Then again, you are talking to the guy who wishes they would bring back golden goal and do away with penalties altogether.
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'm kinda new to soccer
so a few things you said didn’t really make a lot of sense lol. Other than the World Cup, I’ve only watched 2 other matches though. Both Premier League (I’m not even sure of the leagues and who is in and all of that). But I really like it, trying to learn
by twinkilling0303 on Feb 6, 2012 8:08 PM CST up reply actions
It's awesome, and there's actually lots of people here
that are into Euro soccer in some form or another. So ask whatever questions you need to man, and just try to watch some highlight shows or something if you get a chance.
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
what's your source on that?
"When I played, this is how I liked to play," Karl said. "It’s a combination of North Carolina, Phoenix Suns, Doug Moe. There is a commitment to running all the time."
Smith's mistakes throughout the series have bothered Karl. "And then, of course the one with eight seconds to go, from 50 feet," Karl said. "I just love the dignity of the game being insulted right in front of me."
by Plea for Intelligence on Feb 6, 2012 12:08 PM CST reply actions
Here's a link
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
Rockets 101 – Denver 97…
.
I had to stop arguing with drunks, Steeler fans, and all other fools.
It was making my brick wall jealous...
.
Dedicated to the "Pride of the Steelers"
.
Nuggets 102-94
And major props to Patrick for this. Thanks buddy. Great preview, too.
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
Also loved this:
we Rockets fans don’t like to make a big deal over the league management’s perceived marginalization of the team.
Had me chuckling pretty hard.
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
Nuggets 105 Rockets 98
Denver will lead big until the 4th, when the Rockets will start to chip away but ultimately fall short. Which will make it even more frustrating.
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 Feb 6, 2012 12:20 PM CST via mobile reply actions
Whoa!
Now Afflalo is likely out in addition to Nene, according to Feigen. Link.
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
Rockets lose,
104-89
"Hakeem couldn't kick your ass cuz you were too
close kissin his!"- Sir Charles to Kenny Smith.
Now that I see Nene and Afflalo are out,
I say Rockets win 100-95
"Hakeem couldn't kick your ass cuz you were too
close kissin his!"- Sir Charles to Kenny Smith.
by bone31crusher on Feb 6, 2012 12:29 PM CST up reply actions
Faried is starting!!
I’m extremely excited to see one of my 2 favorite rookies play. Going to be a fun game.
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
Rockets 100-91
Yeah with all those injuries I’ll be very disappointed if we lose
"San Antonio is the best falling down team in the league"- Bill Worrell
Rockets 110-98
Rockets haven’t played their best lately, but Nene is a really important player for them; if you watch their offense a lot of it runs through him. With him out the Rockets should take this easy.
Rough night for the Nuggs
Good thing they have a deep bench. It will be an exciting game even if Nene, Afflalo, and Brewer are all out. I believe Karl has a rivalry with the Rockets that dates back to the early nineties. That 7 game series in ‘93 was SUCH a battle and I wish the Sonics would have taken out the Bulls that year since they beat us. He’s been a great coach for a long time and always shows up to win.
That being said, I think the Rockets will have more fire than usual going on. Scola should be running a tango around Faried for plenty of buckets and Parsons will get some deflections because the Nuggs have constant ball movement. He’ll have his hands full with Galinari, of course.
Rockets fight hard for a win on the road: 102-97
Forget who is starting, Small Ball will reign
GK will play most of the game with Miller, Lawson, Rudy and Harrington at center. The fourth guy – Brewer – out really makes this intriguing as who else will play. Koufus and Bird will play about 20 minutes each but Faried is the wild card here. This guy is explosive. And he’s been trapped on the bench all season. He’ll either explode or implode from too much intensity. I am changing my mind from Houston winning to Denver gathering together as a team and winning, maybe by a lot. The one you guys have to watch most for is Miller. He turns it on when his team needs him.
"When I played, this is how I liked to play," Karl said. "It’s a combination of North Carolina, Phoenix Suns, Doug Moe. There is a commitment to running all the time."
Smith's mistakes throughout the series have bothered Karl. "And then, of course the one with eight seconds to go, from 50 feet," Karl said. "I just love the dignity of the game being insulted right in front of me."
by Plea for Intelligence on Feb 6, 2012 1:50 PM CST reply actions
Rocket fans...
Nug fan here, though living in NY…I cant believe the number of fans picking Nugs to win with 4 important players out.
Just curious, why exactly do fans feel that Nugs have edge? I dont get it.
Anyway, I love your team and usually root for Rockets when they dont play Nugs.
Oh, and that stomp by Love on Scola was craven and classless.
Thanks
Nuggets at home always seem to have an advantage.
But with 4 starters out, I would pick the Rockets.
The Rockets still haven’t completely gelled together yet. Very inconsistent. So in the altitude, on the road, against a solid team, it’s tough to pick them.
by VBG on Feb 6, 2012 2:46 PM CST up reply actions
I think most of us picked up the Nuggets to win before knowing the injuries
But still I’ll take the Nuggets cause Houston’s pretty bad on the road.
Craven eh?
I feel like I just fell into the Song of Ice & Fire
"San Antonio is the best falling down team in the league"- Bill Worrell
by TheLastDynasty on Feb 6, 2012 4:49 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
This comment will get a rec because IT'S AWESOME!
Every time I watch Fulham play at home, which is called Craven Cottage, I want to yell that Winter is Coming.
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
Just started the series. Girlfiriend said it would appeal to my inner caveman.
I sure hope she is right.
"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 Feb 6, 2012 6:23 PM CST up reply actions
Haha! Very good, sir. Thank you.
"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 Feb 6, 2012 6:24 PM CST up reply actions
the nuggets
Are one of the few teams in the west I don’t have a reason to hate. The current team is a joy to watch and seem to be pretty classy. Anyway, I think most of the predictions were made before news of the injuries leaked and Houston isn’t a great road team.
by Christopher Dion Harris on Feb 6, 2012 5:46 PM CST via iPhone app up reply actions
I like they way they play
They play as a team just like we have the passed few seasons. This is how basketball was meant to be played. Not one guy having to carry an entire team, even though it is fun to watch.
I hate david stern!
Their announcers suck
That’s all I’ve got. If you have to listen to them tonight, be ready for some homerism that puts Bill and Clyde to shame.
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'll take Rockets in a surprise road victory
95 – 93.
BTW, Jeremy Lin scored 25 against the Nets. Sigh…if only…
My thoughts are like Brian Cushing on the field: Everywhere.
I saw that and thought the same thing
"San Antonio is the best falling down team in the league"- Bill Worrell
by TheLastDynasty on Feb 6, 2012 4:51 PM CST up reply actions
Becasue you know.
Jeremy Lin was going to play 30 minutes on this rockets team.
Wages of Wins has home/road splits from 2006-2010 separated by altitude:
(always good to see before Nuggets/Jazz games):
oh god dont pull this crap on me.........
Go Rockets!
"Our players knew we were going to win so kinda let up on defense." Kevin Mchale
"Screw Stern!" Me
It always killed Hakeem to play up there
And that dude was in great shape.
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
rox 108 den 100
Go Rockets!
"Our players knew we were going to win so kinda let up on defense." Kevin Mchale
"Screw Stern!" Me
Rockets 100 Denver 91
Both teams have rest but the Nuggets are going to lack offense with Nene and Afflalo out. The injuries take their toll and the rockets crawl to an ugly victory.
Interesting game so far...my bonus points appeared to be detrimental to most...
C’mon guys, I told you Love was a beast!! He may have to step on a few heads to get there, but he will get his rebounds. Anyways, moving on. Congrats to sohum for taking advantage of it, and blasting to the top 3. And I’m now in the top 10! Huzzah! As always, let me know if you think there’s a mistake
1. Rockets4LIFE-320
2. OJ ATM-301
3. sohum-295
4. .Bonzo-289
5. RiiseRockets-282
6. ak2themax-277
7. twinkilling0303-270
8. BD34-261
9. jake_471-243
10. TWCIR-240
11. Dmo_Htx-239
12. bone31crusher-238
13. Irish Trasher-236
14. dech-221
15. btrizzle25-210
16. BuckeyeBob-212
17. Carlos_HoustonSportsFanatic-215
18. Camouflage14-194
19. arnold p-197
20. galicae-196
21. steeler-hater-190
22. ehburrus-187
23. VBG-187
24. jbars-185
25. craigj007-178
26. Rockets7-171
27. Christopher Dion Harris-171
28. Slackary-150
29. AIDe2356-137
30. f22a4bandit-134
31. TheLastDynasty-129
32. Texas08-128
33. AhForJustOneTime-125
34. Vambram-123
35. Rocketsfanforbasketballreasons88-122
36. mitmil22-119
37. A.J.G.-115
38. johnsmith-114
39. batman713-113
40. Mike Kerns-110
41. MEGA_MAN-110
42. MeLioRate-110
43. Mellowman-110
44. tunatango-110
45. Fuller-110
46. mob16151-110
47. 76_Raptors-110
48. gunsbound-110
49. lakeytom-110
50. taylorrohrman-107
51. olivarezq1-107
52. RedRowdy420-106
53. chuckiepoo-106
54. Bighaircut-102
55. Rockets78-102
56. ShookednShanghaied11-98
57. AllenOU-96
58. Mannan Ali-96
59. makinmajik-96
60. Stupendous Man-96
61. HTown80-96
62. Nike86-96
63. Valiant1-96
64. Xiane-94
65. TiEaB-92
66. lucneguye92-83
"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 Feb 6, 2012 5:01 PM CST reply actions
And I'm not sure where to put this, but i'll go Rockets 99-90 due to the injuries
"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 Feb 6, 2012 5:02 PM CST up reply actions
You've earned the right not to have to put your prediction somewhere "official"
Considering none of us are going to call you out on it and if they did I’d just ban them for being a jerk.
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
Lol. Well, I have to keep it fair, do I not? This is a battle of Rocket knowledge, and I shall not claim a corrupt crown!
That is…..unmanly
"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 Feb 6, 2012 6:26 PM CST up reply actions
And we have a nail on the head winner. TCWHRO.
That’s a first in this game, isn’t it?
Maireann croí éadrom i bhfad.
It is!
Wowza!
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
Thank goodness I was able to wake up just before the game, Rockets win a close UGLY game 106-101
Also way to go moving to top 10!
"I always keep a ball in the car. You never know."
-Hakeem Olajuwon
"Stern Sucks"
-Me
Rockets 104 - Nuugets 96
"Each in turn... volunteered his suggestions, his invaluable suggestions."
by Xiane on Feb 6, 2012 5:08 PM CST via mobile reply actions
Chris Broussard tweet
Knicks & Lakers ask Rockets about Jonny Flynn, sources say. NY mentions RBalkman/MBibby.Hou not interested. Nothing imminent w/ either team.
I'd want picks.
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
Do the Knicks have any left?
I’m sure the Lakers are saving their assets for a potential Dwight deal.
by twinkilling0303 on Feb 6, 2012 5:34 PM CST up reply actions
I'm not sure, but I'd take a second for him.
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
Knicks don't have another first-round draft pick to trade until 2018 at the earliest.
The one due to us this year, and then two to Denver (2014, ‘16). That shifts further if the pick they owe us isn’t conveyed this year. Stepian rule.
In any case, you’re not looking for a first-round pick for Flynn. He isn’t worth that much.
I'm surprised they asked for Flynn and not Dragic
maybe they don’t want to give up a first rounder for Dragic. I figured we’d hear his name a little bit before the deadline.
by twinkilling0303 on Feb 6, 2012 5:45 PM CST up reply actions
Flynn's worth little as a player
but he’s worth considerably more as a $3.4 million expiring contract. I’d like to think they can get more for that than another bench-filler (not by himself, obviously, but as part of something larger, perhaps), and if they can’t, then there’s really no harm in holding onto him.
The Rockets aren’t searching for depth at this point. They don’t need Mike Bibby’s corpse to be the last guard off the bench, they don’t need Renaldo Balkman to be Hill-but-terrible, they don’t need Devin Ebanks to be the last perimeter guy. Dealing him for that little isn’t a bad move, but we’re almost certainly better served by just waiting and seeing what comes along closer to the deadline.
And that’s probably why the Rockets weren’t interested. Not because they see any particular value coming from Flynn on the court, but because his contract is stupidly worth something more under the CBA.
I think he has value to the Knicks and Lakers
desperate for a point guard, and Flynn could go either way as a player. I agree though, he’ll probably finish the season out here.
by twinkilling0303 on Feb 6, 2012 5:59 PM CST up reply actions
the knicks should just give up
landry fields for flynn…
by Christopher Dion Harris on Feb 6, 2012 6:11 PM CST up reply actions
Hi
This is Leeroy Jenkins, Employee of the Month at Academy. Get your hot Rockets jerseys right over here. New shipment!
I want this to happen.
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
LEEEROYYYYY!!!!!
"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 Feb 6, 2012 6:26 PM CST up reply actions
He sure does...
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
One of my top 10 memes of all time
"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 Feb 6, 2012 6:28 PM CST up reply actions
Xzibit's is still #1 for me
But Leeroy is definitely up there.
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
The ? inside of ? so you can ? while you ?
Or the xzibit happy sad one?
"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 Feb 6, 2012 6:34 PM CST up reply actions
The first one
But the happy-sad Xzibit is cool too.
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
Amar'e Stoudemire, Carmelo Anthony, Madison Square Garden, Walt Frazier's retirement, cable service for Houston,
and a rescinding of the Denver draft picks that got traded. Minimum.
Maireann croí éadrom i bhfad.
I want Funions too!
Like, the whole company.
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
Even Spike?
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
You don't want a Kyle Lowry film?
“He Developed Game”
Maireann croí éadrom i bhfad.
by BD34 on Feb 6, 2012 6:37 PM CST up reply actions 2 recs
I love this comment so much.
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
Expect a 2nd for him
Check out The Dream Shake.
by Patrick Harrel on Feb 6, 2012 6:20 PM CST up reply actions
Lakers have a TPE that can save Les some money.
And it opens up a roster spot for oh,say,some random guy in the D-League :)
More importantly it opens up a roster spot so the Rockets could make a trade and take back one more player than they send out.
If only they could've done it in the pre-season
So they could’ve kept Jeremy Lin.
Check out The Dream Shake.
by Patrick Harrel on Feb 6, 2012 7:55 PM CST up reply actions
nuggets 105-103
come back from double-digit deficit in the fourth, as per the usual.
hou 96 - den 87
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.
I don't know if this is a risk or not, but Rockets 103 - 96 Denver
My own little BOLD prediction: Kenneth Faried has 12 Rebounds by the end of the game.
Dallas and Houston fan making it work. Gig 'em!
Oh man, I COMPLETELY forgot about this game.
Good thing it starts at 8. I’ve got the Rockets winning 100-71. that’s not a typo.
Sonicsgate: A movie about how the Sonics were stolen from Seattle.
Don't trade Courtney Lee!
Confident, I see.
"Well, remember what you said, because in a day or two, I'll have a witty and blistering retort! You'll be devastated THEN!" Bill Watterson~Calvin and Hobbes
by The Chuckwagon has rolled on on Feb 6, 2012 7:36 PM CST up reply actions
I'm just trying to enjoy this next month.
No baseball, No football, just this Rockets team that I really wish I wouldn’t have to root for.
Sonicsgate: A movie about how the Sonics were stolen from Seattle.
Don't trade Courtney Lee!
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