The Houston Rockets played their last preseason game against the San Antonio Spurs and finished comfortably at 128-106. This was James Harden’s second game with the franchise he wants to bid goodbye to. However, this game was focused more upon Christian Wood making his preseason debut and showcasing a stellar performance that helped Houston win the match. Can he be the Anthony Davis for the Rockets?
Both John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins are sitting out from the Rockets’ side as of now. The team is keeping these two players rested until they play their first regular-season game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on December 24. Meanwhile, the Spurs have Keldon Johnson and Keita Bares-Diop missing.
The offseason hasn’t been great for the Rockets. So having a good preseason is a good start for them. Amidst so many difficulties, thing is looking positive for the Rockets. Their top free agency target, Christian Wood, showed the Rockets exactly why they picked him.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In fact, the teammate with whose help Wood gave the Rockets their lead in the game believes that Wood is like one of the Lakers‘ superstar.
An Anthony Davis in Christian Wood?
The Rockets started the game very strongly by holding an early lead because of back-to-back buckets from Eric Gordon and Christian Wood. Wood has signed a $41 million contract for three years with the Rockets. He missed the previous games as he was dealing with a slight elbow injury.
Despite just coming off the bench, Wood dropped 27 points, going 10 of 18 shooting and 10 rebounds. He blended well alongside James Harden. He was rather reminiscent of Anthony Davis when he joined the Lakers.
As per Tim MacMahon, Eric Gordon believes the same. He said, “He’s similar to like an Anthony Davis.” This was in reference to Wood’s shooting abilities and also the ability to play as a big above the rim.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Eric Gordon says a mouthful after Christian Wood put up 27 points and 10 rebounds in his Rockets preseason debut: "He's similar to like an Anthony Davis."
Gordon was referring to Wood's ability to shoot and play above the rim as a big.
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) December 18, 2020
The Spurs’ messed up offense made it easier for the Rockets. One can only know if Wood matches the level of Davis if he plays this way against more dominant teams like the Golden State Warriors, Portland Trail Blazers, or even the Lakers for that matter.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad