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Last week at this time we were getting pumped. We were 4-0 on a potentially rough road trip and the fifth seed was in sight. But you know what they say...
The more things change, the more they stay the same.
The Rockets have become legendary for their fourth quarter collapses over the years. Blowing epic leads that seemed safe was just a regular Tuesday for Houston. Oh, we're up 15 with 8 minutes left? Let's fix that. Sorry about the confusion.
So you could say that the Rockets are continuing a trend on the larger scale. Now, it's the fourth quarter of the season and our favorite men in red cannot get a win to save their playoff lives. And it's always the third quarter. I don't know what's going on in the locker room at halftime, but something ain't right.
And now Kevin Martin wants to come back. Fine by me. Honestly, can he do any worse than the Rockets have done in the last week? I know he stinks on defense, but when you're giving up 30+ points in the third quarter, you can't be picky. Offense matters, too. And with him getting to the line, it allows guys to rest and lets McHale set up a defense on the other side of the floor.
Wait, Kevin Martin could help this team? Heresy!
And tonight it's the Mavericks. The bane of our existence. No wins against them since 2009. Here's the deal: win this game, and the floodgates open. Win this game, and we go 5-0 the rest of the way. Lose it, and 2-3 happens. Calling it right now. For the first time in the TCWHRO prediction game, I am not making a prediction on purpose. We have to win this thing, and I'm having a hard time deciding between my heart and my brain.
Other important games tonight for the Rockets:
Jazz vs. Trail Blazers
With it looking like the Knicks are going to make the playoffs, I won't be including them anymore. But any loss for them is still good news for us. And no matchups because this team doesn't deserve them. And you know...medical school. Plus, no posting this at 8am in the morning. I'll do whatever it takes to change the mojo of this ballclub.
Tip is at 7:30 CST.
Rockets vs Mavericks coverage