Houston Rockets vs. Orlando Magic game preview

The Houston Rockets need a win.

As Houston is mired in a 3-game losing skid and things are looking bleak, the Orlando Magic arrive in town sitting just a half-game out of seventh place in the Eastern Conference. Since everyone wants to avoid Milwaukee in the East, the fight to move away from facing the Bucks in the first round will be intense between the Magic and Nets.

Houston is suddenly in real danger of falling to seventh in the West, which would be a disaster for this team and their small ball philosophy. Luckily for Houston, they get Russell Westbrook back from rest tonight. He will be sorely needed, especially since the James Harden of the past couple of months has not been the same Beard we have come to expect.

The game has a slightly early start time, which once again bodes poorly for the Rockets. Just once it would be nice to see the Rockets put a team away early. I’m not holding my breath though.

Tip-off is at 6pm CT