The LA Clippers took on the Rockets tonight to end the two-game mini series down in Houston with a simple goal: finish the season sweep. And that they did, winning 113-110. Even better, the Clippers extended their winning streak to four, as they go into another consequential game against the Lakers on Thursday.
Summary
The game was basically dead even, all in all, throughout the first half. Neither team had more than a 7 point lead, both shot poorly, and it was generally sloppy play. The Rockets, who had a one point lead at half time, were led by Christian Wood, who had 12 points on 5/8 shooting. The Clippers were, again, led by Ivica Zubac, who picked up right where he left off on Sunday: 12 points (4/6 FG), six rebounds, and a block in the first half. Marcus Morris, Sr. and Terance Mann were both solid, adding nine each.
The Clippers blew this game open in third, putting up 40 in the frame. They were led by Morris, who had nine points in the quarter. But everyone added a little over what was at one point an 18-3 run. Hartenstein, Coffey, Covington went on to close out in the game in the fourth. And they were even joined by Rodney Hood and Semi Ojeleye, who got a four minutes each after getting DNP-CDs on Sunday.
Clippers vs. Rockets Game Notes
- Monster Zubac: In just 24 minutes, Zubac had 22 points (8/12 FG), 12 rebounds, two assists, a block, and a steal. He did not quite hit Coach Lue’s 20pt-15rb challenge, but he was certainly on pace through three quarter. Hopefully these two games have given Zubac some confidence going into Thursday’s matchup with the Lakers, against whom he had some trouble last week.
- Rewarding Boston: Brandon Boston, Jr. got early minutes tonight—something we have not seen frequently as of late. He ended the game with 11 points (4/8 FG, including a nice step-back three), four rebounds, two assists, and a steal. After the game, Coach Lue praised Boston for doing the right things “behind-the-scenes.” In our preview, I wrote that maybe Batum could take some of the ball-handling load to make life easier on Reggie—but maybe Boston will be able to help out as well.
Up Next: The LA Clippers head home to try and extend their win streak to five against the Los Angeles Lakers this Thursday, March 3rd at 7pm. [Note the earlier start time.]
