- I never thought this was going to be a sweep, despite what the national media is telling you about the disparity in these supporting casts. That’s a talented team over there, and one with the ability present problems for the Rockets. The Thunder played basically perfect basketball, and the Rockets still had a chance to win it at the end. I can live with that.
- I am perfectly fine with the shot taken by James Harden to close the game. On the road, with Beverley already fouled out, and Harden himself playing with five fouls, I don’t know that overtime is an endeavor the team would be willing to undertake. More importantly, with Adams already back, there’s no way Harden would have gotten a call upon inevitably being clobbered. I’ve seen the Rockets lose far too many games these past few years in that fashion to think that a drive should ever be the play. A clean look at the ‘3’ was the way to go.
- Have I mentioned how over Trevor Ariza I am? I feel guilt when making such a declaration, primarily because he’s meant so much to this team these past few years in its unlikely success. He’s brought leadership, toughness, and a no-nonsense attitude. But man, it’s cringe-inducing to watch him drive into a crowd or string together more than even two dribbles. It looked even worse last night when things were as heavily contested as they were. Sometimes I like to daydream what this offense would look like with a competent offensive player at that spot. Not that this offense needs any improvement; except that you can always get better.
- Nothing makes me want to throw my remote at the television more than when Ryan Anderson passes up open shots. Even if he’s 0-100. I feel better about an open Ryan Anderson ‘3’ than maybe any other shot possibility.
- So what’s the narrative today? I can see how many in media might be struggling collectively at reconciling their emotions. Russ got his triple double, but James Harden won the scoring battle. More importantly, the Thunder’s supposed D-League quality supporting cast showed up in a big way, outplaying Houston’s supposed star-studded cast. Was it a fluke? Was it a one-day thing?
