USA Today via Reuters
Feb 13, 2021; San Francisco, California, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard James Harden (13) talks with forward Kevin Durant (7) during a free throw attempt by the Nets against the Golden State Warriors in the third quarter at the Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Feb 13, 2021; San Francisco, California, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard James Harden (13) talks with forward Kevin Durant (7) during a free throw attempt by the Nets against the Golden State Warriors in the third quarter at the Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
The Brooklyn Nets take on the Houston Rockets tonight for the second time this season. For the Nets, they have been very impressive this year. Since acquiring James Harden, the franchise has looked like a title contender. The additions of Blake Griffin and LaMarcus Aldridge have been a big boost for the franchise. James Harden has been playing at an MVP level in the absence of Kevin Durant, and occasional absences of Kyrie Irving.
The Houston Rockets, on the other hand, have been abysmal this season. After losing James Harden, the franchise has fallen to the wayside. They traded away Victor Oladipo to the Miami Heat, getting rid of the last major piece they got in return for Harden. Currently, the Rockets are projected to be a major lottery team and are locked out of the playoff picture this season.
With that in mind, let us take a look at the Brooklyn Nets taking on the Houston Rockets
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Brooklyn Nets – Team News
USA Today via Reuters
Mar 21, 2021; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Brooklyn Nets power forward Blake Griffin (2) reacts with shooting guard James Harden (13) during the fourth quarter against the Washington Wizards at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
The Brooklyn Nets have their injury concerns resolving themselves as time goes on. Kevin Durant appears to be in the final stage of his recovery, therefore he will not play this week. LaMarcus Aldridge needs a little more time in order to find his conditioning in order to be match fit. Landry Shamet remains out and will not return for the foreseeable future.
Predicted Lineup: James Harden, Kyrie Irving, Bruce Brown, Joe Harris, DeAndre Jordan
Houston Rockets – Team News
USA Today via Reuters
Feb 26, 2021; Tampa, Florida, USA; Houston Rockets forward P.J. Tucker (17) points as he makes a three point basket against the Toronto Raptors during the first half at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The Houston Rockets have several injury concerns heading to the game. John Wall and Christian Wood are listed as questionable for respective conditions. Eric Gordon, David Nwaba, and Dante Exum will be out for an extended period of time. Danuel House is listed as probable for tonight’s game.
Predicted Lineup: DJ Augustin, Kevin Porter Jr., Kenyon Martin, JaeSean Tate, Kelly Olynyk
Brooklyn Nets vs Houston Rockets – Prediction
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USA Today via Reuters
Feb 18, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard James Harden (13) drives to the basket defended by Los Angeles Lakers guard Wesley Matthews (9) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
On paper, this looks like a total mismatch. The Nets have been arguably the best team in the NBA since January. Whereas, the Rocket has been one of the worst. The Rockets just recently snapped a 20-game losing streak, but haven’t turned things around massively since then. Expect ‘The Beard’ to torment his former team with another impressive showing.
READ MORE: Los Angeles Lakers vs Brooklyn Nets: Which NBA Team is Better on Paper After All Trades?
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Prediction: James Harden and Kyrie Irving have an amazing performance to give the Nets another big win.
Who will win between the Brooklyn Nets and the Houston Rockets? Let us know in the comments below.
