Rockets vs. Bulls game preview: out of the cold and into the frying pan

After several days in the freezing cold, Houston is finally ready to host a basketball game!

Like many Houstonians and Texans, I was without power and water for an extended period of time last week, all while freezing temperatures swept through the entire state of Texas. Cell towers were taken down due to overload, so for about 48 hours I had no contact with the outside world. Luckily, a stray email made it to the TDS family and Darren was able to cover the 76ers game preview for me. Much thanks to him and the rest of the available TDS staff for stepping up big time while some of us were unable to do anything.

Luckily for me and my family, we emerged from the ordeal unscathed other than a pipe issue that arose afterwards. I’m hopeful that everyone reading this is safe and warm. Power is back for Houston now, but there are still people without water and food.

Obviously, the Rockets didn’t choose to have two games postponed, but the team can’t be upset with the decision in terms of the on-court situation. Houston is in desperate need of a refresh, and maybe the days “off” might help. They could also hurt, depending on family situations for the players and staff.

In the days between games, the Rockets parted ways with DeMarcus Cousins and are looking to get younger and smaller. It was reported that Cousins and Wall were excited to play with each other after trying to get together for years. It’s a bit sad that the reunion lasted such a short amount of time, but hopefully this is best for all involved.

The Chicago Bulls are 13-16 and Zach LaVine is going to be an All-Star. The Bulls are 3-1 in their last four, with the one loss coming in a fun contest against the Philadelphia 76ers. Other starters for the Bulls have been Patrick Williams, Wendell Carter, Jr., Coby White, and Garrett Temple. Coming off the bench are Ryan Arcidiacono, Tomas Satoransky, Denzel Valentine, and Rockets murderer Thaddeus Young.

I expect a rusty Rockets squad against a peaking Bulls team. That’s been the norm for Houston this year, with the Rockets consistently falling behind early before trying to mount a furious (unsuccessful) rally.

Tip-off is at 7pm CT on AT&T SportsNet Southwest