3 takeaways from the Rockets win over the Clippers

The Rockets stay hot, pushing past the Clippers 109 to 105. They are the second hottest team in the West (the Warriors are winners of seven in a row) after winning their fourth consecutive game.

The Rockets led by four with three minutes the game, but the Clippers climbed back to pull ahead by a point with 36 seconds left in the game. James Harden immediately answered with free-throws after J.J. Redick fouled him. The Rockets never look back.

Below are three takeaways from the win

Harden got his groove back

We all remember how "How Stella Got Her Groove Back"... She went to Jamaica to re-set but found love.

James Harden took his talents to the road and found his shot! During the two-game road trip, he's scorched the earth scoring 44.5 points a game on 27 for 49 shooting.  While it's unfair to call Harden a "streaky" shooter, when he gets on a roll he usually stays hot for a while.

Dwight played like Dwight

A night after Clint Capela dominated, Dwight Howard quickly reminded people he's the alpha dog. Howard had 20 points to go along with 20 rebounds not to mention he hit four of the five free throws he took all in only 29 minutes of action.

Howard on offense played above the rim getting put backs and alley-oops. On the glass, Howard had very few tough rebounds most were pretty straight forward: I am the biggest dude on the court and the rebound is mine.

The night was great to see. Hopefully, it will be a taste of what a rested Howard will be like for the rest of the season.

Terrence Jones will be Wally Pipped

Kevin McHale is a unique head coach. He will go with the hot hand more than most other coaches in the NBA. If there is a lineup that is working he will stick with it.

Right now, the Marcus Thornton lineup is getting it done. It is unfortunate because Jones is a hard worker and has talent, but four shooters and a big is why the Rockets are winning right now.