Locked On Rockets - Daily Podcast On ...
Locked On Rockets, hosted by Rockets blogger and native Houstonian Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin), offers a daily look inside the Houston Rockets and the NBA. Every day Jackson discusses the latest on James Harden, Russell Westbrook and all things Clutch City. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. #Rockets #OneMission #NBA
101
2019-20 Rockets statistical preview with Josh L...
In Tuesday's show, our Ben DuBose joins Basketball Monster's lead fantasy hoops analyst Josh Lloyd to break down James Harden, Russell Westbrook, Clint Capela, and the rest of the 2019-20 Houston Rockets roster from a statistical perspective.
34 min
102
Mike Meltser on the 2019 Rockets offseason and ...
Houston sports radio veteran Mike Meltser joins Thursday's show. Topics include new perspective on the Russell Westbrook trade and his fit with James Harden; potential extensions for P.J. Tucker and Eric Gordon; Clint Capela's room for growth; and more.
38 min
103
On Morey's podcast comments and Cousins' ACL tear
Friday's show breaks down new information revealed by GM Daryl Morey on a recent podcast, including intel on his offseason pursuits of Jimmy Butler and Russell Westbrook. Ben also explores the implications of Lakers center DeMarcus Cousins tearing his ACL.
48 min
104
2019-20 Rockets schedule release reaction
Monday's show reacts to the brand-new 2019-20 schedule. Highlights include an MVP-heavy opener, with Russell Westbrook's home debut vs. 2019 MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks. Other topics include a soft closing stretch and national TV prominence.
45 min
105
On Terrence Jones, Sergio Llull, and shooting
Wednesday's show explores the latest offseason news and rumors, including why the Rockets may give Terrence Jones another shot; what to make of Sergio Llull still not ruling out the NBA; and how outside shooting is even more vital to Houston this season.
47 min
106
Iguodala remains on radar as offseason reaches ...
Tuesday's show explores new reports that Houston is still looking to land Andre Iguodala this offseason. Other topics include the final roster spots heading into training camp, and the importance of a happy James Harden (after the Westbrook trade).
54 min
107
Key takeaways as Russell Westbrook introduces h...
Karthik Prasad (@stanfordkp) offers his key takeaways from Friday's introductory news conference by the Rockets for Russell Westbrook. Topics include statements from Westbrook and GM Daryl Morey, as well as the importance of a happy James Harden (in attendance).
21 min
108
On the McLemore and Bennett moves, and any rema...
Tuesday's show analyzes Daryl Morey's recent additions of swingman Ben McLemore and big man Anthony Bennett, and why the former lottery picks make sense for Houston's training camp roster. Ben also explores where any remaining funds might best be spent.
38 min
109
Why the Westbrook trade wasn't expanded, and wh...
In Wednesday’s show, Ben explores why the Russell Westbrook trade (now official) wasn’t expanded to include another player(s) coming to Houston. Topics include what it says about ownership, and what to expect and watch for as the offseason continues.
32 min
110
Could the Westbrook trade be expanded?
Monday's show with Karthik Prasad breaks down why the Russell Westbrook trade isn't official. Ben and Karthik explore the upside of potentially expanding the deal, including how names like Andre Iguodala, Robert Covington, and others might come into play.
32 min
111
Matt Moore on Houston's new Westbrook era
NBA expert Matt Moore (@HPbasketball) outlines how Houston can optimize its system to succeed with Russell Westbrook, led by how James Harden and Mike D'Antoni may need to change. Other topics include the Tyson Chandler and Anthony Bennett additions.
33 min
112
More Westbrook trade fallout and potential hidd...
Friday's show offers more reaction to the big trade of Chris Paul (and picks) for Russell Westbrook, led by potential hidden benefits as it pertains to filling out the roster. We also play back Ben's post-trade interview with Taylor Travis and Mike Lucas.
32 min
113
Blockbuster! Westbrook heads to Houston as CP3 ...
Ben DuBose offers his immediate thoughts on the blockbuster trade sending Oklahoma City star Russell Westbrook to Houston for Chris Paul and draft picks.
42 min
114
New NBA landscape, Westbrook's future, and Hous...
Roosh Williams and Ben dissect Houston’s place in the new NBA landscape with Kawhi and PG joining the Clippers. Other topics include Russell Westbrook’s future; Houston’s targets (Igoudala, Chandler) as free agency continues; and Summer League takeaways.
46 min
115
Ripple effects from Clippers landing Kawhi, PG
Saturday's show reacts to the bombshell of both Kawhi Leonard and Paul George joining the Clippers. Topics include where Houston stands in the West after the moves; a potential OKC breakup; matching up with the Clips; and the importance of the No. 1 seed.
38 min
116
On the Kawhi domino effect, and Shumpert trade ...
Wednesday's show explores the potential domino effect around the entire NBA from Kawhi Leonard's pending free agency decision, as well as why the absence of money on the market might make Iman Shumpert more willing to work with the Rockets on a sign-and-trade.
34 min
117
Day 2: On Rivers’ return and Golden State's bre...
Monday’s show breaks down the re-signing of guard Austin Rivers to a minimum (!!!) deal, along with insight on Houston’s potential pursuits of Andre Igoudala and Kevin Looney following Golden State’s surprising D’Angelo Russell trade.
52 min
118
GreenHouse effect lives on, but Butler off the ...
Houston brought back swingmen Danuel House Jr. and Gerald Green on a busy first night of free agency, but lost out to the Miami Heat in the race for top target Jimmy Butler. Sunday night's show breaks down how it happened and where Daryl Morey could go next.
43 min
119
Butler update, chemistry questions, and the Kaw...
With trade talks involving Eric Gordon and Clint Capela going public, is there any risk to chemistry should a Jimmy Butler deal not happen? Saturday's pre-free agency show explores that angle and more, including new rumors of Kawhi Leonard to the Lakers.
49 min
120
On MLE targets and the timing of any Butler deal
Wednesday's show explores the timing of a potential Jimmy Butler trade to Houston, including why the 76ers and Rockets (both needing other early signings in free agency) each have ample incentive to reach a quick resolution.
41 min
121
Ken Sheirr on new uniforms, working for Tilman ...
Rockets senior vice president of marketing Ken Sheirr joins Monday's show with insight on the team's new uniforms; early feedback from the players and fans; working for a relatively new owner in Tilman Fertitta; and much more.
28 min
122
On Butler S&T scenarios and the role of Shumpert
With reports that Houston may pursue Jimmy Butler via sign-and-trade (rather than by opting in), Saturday's show breaks down the roster implications of assets given up and a hard salary cap. Ben also explores a potential reverse S&T with Iman Shumpert.
49 min
123
Tuesday rumors: Chris Paul, Jimmy Butler, and A...
Tuesday's show explores direct or potential Rockets angles to various trade and free agency rumors on Tuesday surrounding Chris Paul, Philadelphia swingman Jimmy Butler, and Boston big man Al Horford.
49 min
124
On CP3 rumors, AD to LA, and player options
Monday's show explores a new "report" on Chris Paul and whether he wants to be in Houston; the ripple effects of New Orleans trading Anthony Davis to the Lakers; and why fans should be skeptical with media reports on player options (such as Jimmy Butler).
44 min
125
With Klay and KD out, is Houston the 2019-20 We...
Friday's show reflects on Toronto’s NBA Finals win and previews 2019-20. With Golden State’s Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson (ACL) out for a long time, Ben explores whether Houston is now the West favorite and if that changes Daryl Morey’s offseason plans.
49 min
126
Ripple effects from Durant's Achilles injury
Wednesday's show explores the ripple effects from Kevin Durant's Game 5 Achilles injury on the Warriors and the rest of the NBA, and of course what both may mean for the Rockets moving forward.
52 min
127
Potential Houston fits in AD trade talks and Te...
Monday’s show reacts to news of New Orleans moving forward on Anthony Davis trade talks and where Houston may fit in, as well as James Harden, Eric Gordon, and PJ Tucker all earning invitations to Team USA’s training camp in August for the 2019 World Cup.
43 min
128
On new D'Antoni extension talks and Toronto's s...
Saturday's show reacts to a new round of extension talks with Mike D’Antoni and the urgency for owner Tilman Fertitta to get a deal done. Other topics include Toronto’s 3-1 lead over Golden State in the NBA Finals, and what they have that Houston did not.
42 min
129
Reaction to NYT rumors on Capela, Gordon, and T...
Wednesday’s show reacts to Marc Stein’s report that Houston plans to trade at least one of Clint Capela, Eric Gordon, and PJ Tucker in 2019. Ben explains why Capela is most likely and Tucker least, along with more insight on James Harden’s title window.
46 min
130
On the D'Antoni turmoil, Morey's Instagram hint...
Houston Chronicle reporter Hunter Atkins joins Monday's show. Topics include the leaks from Mike D'Antoni's agent and Houston’s front office on unsuccessful extension talks; Daryl Morey's IG comments about keeping Chris Paul; NBA Finals lessons; and more.
54 min
131
Why contract extension talks broke down with D'...
Friday's show addresses news of the Rockets and Mike D'Antoni breaking off contract extension talks and what the rationale is for both sides, as well as the longer-term implications of the move as it pertains to luring assistant coaches and free agents.
29 min
132
Reaction to Woj story on aggressive trade propo...
Thursday’s show offers reaction to a report from ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski that the Rockets are aggressively shopping center Clint Capela; open to trading guard Chris Paul; and stalled out in extension talks with coach Mike D’Antoni.
40 min
133
NBA Finals storylines from a Houston perspective
Wednesday's show previews the NBA Finals from a Houston perspective, led by free agency benefits if Toronto wins; the ability to push back on narratives if Golden State wins; and a key matchup to watch to gauge Clint Capela's future viability.
32 min
134
Offseason trade primer, and why CP3 deals don't...
Tuesday's show explores offseason trade considerations, including a need for filler salaries and why trade exceptions may help; how re-signing Iman Shumpert or Gerald Green could aid future flexibility; and why Chris Paul trade proposals don't make sense.
36 min
135
More staff changes, and the D'Antoni question
With four more members of Houston's coaching staff not retained, Saturday's show explores the rationale behind the moves. Ben also explains why holding Mike D'Antoni to a one-year contract could be increasingly problematic as Daryl Morey works to fill the vacancies.
26 min
136
Extension rumors, WCF lessons, Harden's appreci...
In Friday’s show, Ben and Mike Mitchell recap the week’s news and rumors. Topics include potential extensions for Mike D'Antoni and Eric Gordon; the exit of Jeff Bzdelik; growing appreciation for James Harden; and lessons from Golden State’s WCF sweep.
40 min
137
Playoff and free agency storylines relevant to ...
Wednesday’s show explores relevant playoff and FA storylines to Houston. Topics include Golden State sweeping Portland; growing appreciation for James Harden; and ripple effects of Kevin Durant's potential exit and why the Clippers are a scary scenario.
32 min
138
On Bzdelik's exit and extension talks for D'Ant...
Monday's show offers reaction to the news of assistant coach Jeff Bzdelik not having his contract renewed, as well as analysis on recent rumors surrounding possible contract extensions for head coach Mike D'Antoni and guard Eric Gordon.
34 min
139
Reaction to first offseason interviews by Morey...
Friday's show features reaction to the first offseason interviews by GM Daryl Morey and head coach Mike D'Antoni, along with analysis of remaining NBA playoff storylines and how they could impact Houston.
37 min
140
On D'Antoni, CP3's aging curve, Jimmy Butler, a...
Houston Chronicle reporter Hunter Atkins joins Ben to preview the offseason. Topics include Chris Paul's aging curve; the talent gap between Houston and Golden State; the future of Mike D'Antoni in Houston; a potential Jimmy Butler pursuit; and much more.
56 min
141
On CP3's contract, D'Antoni's future, and Playo...
Monday's show explores faulty narratives regarding Chris Paul's contract and why it's not all that prohibitive to the Rockets; the still uncertain future of coach Mike D'Antoni; and the misguided criticism of James Harden in the playoffs.
44 min
142
Game 6: On the end of 2018-19 and what comes next
Saturday's show breaks down the series-ending loss to Golden State in Game 6, what we learned from the playoffs about James Harden, and why the offseason should be a very active one in Houston.
47 min
143
Game 5: On Durant's injury and a blown opportunity
Thursday's recap of a 104-99 Game 5 loss explores what went wrong after Kevin Durant exited with a calf injury; what KD’s likely absence means for the series; and why Chris Paul and Clint Capela (6/24 FG) deserve "blame" over James Harden (31/8, 63% FG).
36 min
144
Game 5 preview with Roosh Williams
Roosh Williams and Ben preview Game 5. Topics include the sense of urgency for Houston; James Harden’s playoff breakout; improvements by PJ Tucker and the defense; the potential for a CP3 signature game; and whether Golden State has any adjustments left.
34 min
145
Game 4: Houston ties series behind Harden, Tuck...
James Harden (38/10) was brilliant and PJ Tucker (17/10) set a tone for the tougher Rockets on defense and the glass (50-43) as Houston won Game 4 to tie the series. Tuesday's show explores key takeaways in what’s now a “Best of 3” series with the champs.
38 min
146
Game 3: Harden delivers late as team effort win...
James Harden (41/9/6) had his most clutch game yet, Eric Gordon (7/14 on 3s) was spectacular, and Houston (+20 rebounds) outworked Golden State in a gutty Game 3 win. Sunday's show breaks down what it means, including for the series and the MVP’s legacy.
34 min
147
Game 3 preview with Craig Ackerman
Craig Ackerman and Ben DuBose preview Saturday’s Game 3 in Houston. Topics include strong play by Golden State’s Draymond Green and Andre Igoudala; the problems of Clint Capela and Danuel House; momentum for James Harden; the need to start fast; and more.
39 min
148
Mailbag: On Game 3, Capela's issues; job securi...
Thursday's show answers fan-submitted mailbag questions on the Golden State series. Topics include the significance of Game 3; what’s gone wrong for Clint Capela; slow starts and offensive lulls; and whether anyone’s job is in jeopardy if Houston loses.
43 min
149
Game 2: Shooting improves, but issues remain wi...
James Harden and the Rockets (43% on 3s) shot better in Game 2, but ongoing problems with Clint Capela (-19) and poor bench play have led to an 0-2 deficit vs. Golden State. Our recap explores potential changes as the series shifts to Houston for Game 3.
43 min
150
On Game 2 adjustments and the officiating crisis
Monday’s show explores fallout from the Game 1 loss at Golden State and a leak of internal NBA officiating reports from last year’s West Finals, which show Houston as consistently shortchanged. Ben explains the key takeaways and what is needed in Game 2.
36 min
151
Matt Moore on Houston's Game 1 loss, officiating
James Harden and Eric Gordon combined for 62, but Houston dropped a winnable Game 1 at Golden State, 104-100. Matt Moore joins Ben to discuss what the close margin indicates moving forward, along with other problems (Clint Capela, officiating).
30 min
152
Takeaways for Houston from Warriors vs. Clippers
Thursday's show looks at the extended series between the Warriors and Clippers heading into Friday's Game 6, and what the likely ramifications are for Houston (who awaits the winner). We also explore lessons to be learned from Damian Lillard and Portland.
36 min
153
Clamp City! Rockets lock up Jazz in Game 5 clin...
James Harden (26/6/6) played through an early shooting slump, Clint Capela (16/10) fought through illness, and Houston collectively had 12 steals and 12 blocks in a gritty 100-93 win over Utah in Game 5. Our recap explores what we learned from the series.
37 min
154
Game 4: Capela's illness, bench woes prevent sweep
With Clint Capela (1/7 FG) ill, Houston went from +4 in rebounding to -17 in a Game 4 loss. Roosh Williams helps Ben break down that and other key themes, including depth (5 bench points); 8 James Harden turnovers; and urgency to end the series in Game 5.
34 min
155
Game 3: Harden's perseverance launches Houston ...
James Harden (22/10) overcame an 0/15 start to deliver 14 late points in a 104-101 Game 3 win. Karthik Prasad joins Ben to break down Houston’s poise facing adversity; clutch play by Chris Paul (18) and PJ Tucker (12/10); key bench impacts; and much more.
38 min
156
Game 3 preview: Why is Houston an underdog?
Should the Rockets (2-0) really be underdogs entering Saturday's Game 3 in Utah? Thursday’s show explores the shaky logic there and also what adjustments the Jazz can make to turn the tide after Houston won the first two games by an average of 26 points.
37 min
157
Take note, NBA: Harden, shooters lead second rout
Houston took a 2-0 series lead with a 118-98 rout of Utah in Game 2. Our recap hits the highlights, led by James Harden’s MVP form (32/13/10); Eric Gordon and PJ Tucker (7/13 on 3s) staying hot; and more elite D by CP3, Capela, and the supporting cast.
39 min
158
On Golden State's new concerns and other West p...
With Boogie Cousins likely out for the postseason and the Warriors in a 1-1 tie with the Clippers after blowing a 31-point lead in Game 2, Tuesday's show explores the ripple effects to Houston from the rest of the West playoff bracket.
37 min
159
Game 2 preview: Exploring Utah's potential adju...
After a 32-point beatdown, what can Utah change for Game 2? Matt Cardenas and Ben talk adjustments, led by defensive strategy on James Harden (29/10). Other topics include D’Antoni’s playoff rotation and how Houston slowed Donovan Mitchell and Joe Ingles.
34 min
160
Game 1: Jazz silenced by Harden, CP3, swarming ...
James Harden (29/10/8) and Chris Paul (14/7) each played like stars, and Houston’s resurgent defense again held Utah below its norms in a 122-90 blowout. Monday’s recap explores the key takeaways from Game 1 and what it means for Wednesday’s Game 2.
41 min
161
Behind enemy lines: David Locke on Jazz series ...
Utah broadcaster David Locke joins Ben on Friday’s show to preview the Round 1 series with the Jazz and Rockets. Topics include whether Utah has enough offense; how their defense forces Houston out of its comfort zones; and Chris Paul as a key variable.
35 min
162
Bobby Brown on Harden and CP3, the Utah matchup...
Former Rockets guard Bobby Brown (11:00) joins Thursday's show to discuss his past year; relationships with old teammates; early thoughts on the Utah series and the Warriors possibility in Round 2; and the evolution of friends James Harden and Chris Paul.
34 min
163
RECAP: Shocking collapse at OKC likely costs To...
Houston (53-29) led by 14 late at OKC with the No. 2 seed in their grasp, then let it all slip away. The No. 4 seed is now likely, with GSW waiting if they advance. Wednesday’s recap explores what went wrong, led by another offensive lull in a key spot.
39 min
164
What to watch for: Playoff race guide entering ...
Monday’s show explores the playoff landscape for the now third-seeded Rockets (53-28) entering the regular season’s final two days, including pivotal games to watch for if Houston wins at OKC and if Houston loses. Ben also touches on keys to the game.
38 min
165
Suns scorched: Gordon, Capela exploit Harden's ...
The Suns trapped MVP James Harden (30/13/9) all night, and Eric Gordon (8/13 on 3s), Clint Capela (22/13), and others made them pay as Houston (53-28) won its 20th of 23 games. Sunday's show recaps the game and the playoff race with only two days left.
39 min
166
RECAP: Rockets crush Knicks, playoff update
Led by James Harden (26/8/8) and Chris Paul (11/10, +34), Houston (52-28) obliterated the Knicks to win its 19th of 22 games. Saturday’s show recaps what we learned and examines the playoff race after Friday’s key results, including Denver over Portland.
31 min
167
Round 1 preview? Rockets show contending chops ...
LA-based Roosh Williams joins Ben on Thursday to dissect the 135-103 rout of the Clippers. Topics include peak efficiency from Harden, CP3, Gordon, and Capela (all 50%+ FG), and if the 2019 Rockets (51-28, 18-3 in last 21) have more upside than in 2018.
36 min
168
RECAP: Harden, Gordon, bench spark Sacramento rout
James Harden (36/10, 63% FG) led the way, Eric Gordon (50% on 3s) stayed hot, and Kenneth Faried (12/11) and Danuel House (19) brought bench energy as Houston (50-28) won its 17th of 20 with a 130-105 rout in Sacramento. Our recap explores the impact.
25 min
169
Ackerman on the Kings, Clips, and preferred pla...
Voice of the Rockets Craig Ackerman joins Tuesday’s show to preview the Kings-Clippers road trip, as well as Houston’s preferred playoff matchups and individual storylines to watch (including Eric Gordon, CP3, and Harden’s MVP bid) over the final 5 games.
31 min
170
RECAP: Crown him! Harden's 50-point triple-doub...
James Harden (50/11/10) took over late as Houston (49-28) won its 16th of 19 games in Saturday's 119-108 victory over Sacramento. Our recap breaks down Harden’s final MVP push; elite Q4 defense (15 points); and Clint Capela (24/15) again feasting inside.
34 min
171
On the MVP Race, Playoff Seedings, and Summer P...
What's the end result of the James Harden vs. Giannis Antetokounmpo MVP race, and how much does playoff seeding mean? Saturday’s chat with Matt Hammond explores that and more, including what to watch for over the final 10 days, the postseason, and beyond.
37 min
172
Rockets resume dominance of Denver behind Capel...
Clint Capela (17/15) and Austin Rivers (+34!!) feasted in the first half, and MVP James Harden (38/6) took over in the second as Houston (48-28) beat Denver (50-24) for a 10th time in 11 games. Friday's recap breaks down what we learned and what it means.
34 min
173
Denver preview and playoff seedings outlook
Thursday's show explores the psychological importance of the Rockets (47-28) vs. Nuggets (50-23) showdown, as well as standings benchmarks to watch for as Houston tries to secure a Top 4, Top 3, or even Top 2 postseason seed over the final seven games.
31 min
174
On subpar shooting in Milwaukee and Nurkic ripp...
MVP candidates James Harden (23/10/7) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (19/14) battled to a near draw, but Milwaukee (56-19) had a deeper supporting cast as Houston’s Eric Gordon and PJ Tucker combined for 3 points on 1/16 shooting in Tuesday's 108-94 loss.
35 min
175
Big Easy! Gordon, Harden lead road romp for 14t...
Eric Gordon (6/11 on 3s) returned to his blistering March form, James Harden (28 points, 6/12 on 3s) stayed hot, and an efficient supporting cast (Tucker, Capela) added enough support as Houston (47-27) cruised in New Orleans to win its 14th game of 16.
31 min
176
RECAP: Houston rallies past SA as Harden scores...
MVP James Harden (61) tied his personal and franchise scoring high as Houston (46-27) rallied late to beat San Antonio (42-31). Saturday’s show recaps his exploits and more, including clutch defensive plays by Tucker and Capela and another rotation tweak.
35 min
177
Weekly review: On playoff seeding, rest, House,...
In Friday's show, Karthik Prasad joins Ben DuBose for a roundtable chat. Topics include the frustrating rest strategy; James Harden's MVP bid; Clint Capela's inconsistent play; resolving the Danuel House contract standoff; playoff seeding; and more.
30 min
178
RECAP: Grizzlies stun Rockets as Valančiūnas ou...
Despite 57 points by MVP James Harden, Houston (45-27) lost for just the 2nd time in 14 games in a 126-125 OT loss at Memphis. Wednesday's recap analyzes the flaws, starting with Jonas Valančiūnas (33/15) outplaying Clint Capela and a -12 rebounding gap.
36 min
179
12 of 13: Capela, House support stars in blowou...
Clint Capela (26/11) broke 20 in the first half, Danuel House (19, +20) made six 3s, and MVP James Harden (31/10/8) and Chris Paul (13/11) did what stars do as Houston (45-26) cruised to a win at Atlanta on Tuesday. Our recap explores the key takeaways.
31 min
180
Capela, bench, rested CP3 spark win over Minnesota
Chris Paul (25/10/7, 6/7 on 3s) returned rested and Clint Capela (20/13) had success vs. Karl-Anthony Towns as Houston (44-26) routed Minnesota to win their 11th game of 12. Sunday's recap breaks it all down, including key bench performances by Danuel House (14/7) and Iman Shumpert.
35 min
181
Suns cooled by House's return, Harden's two-way...
James Harden made up for Chris Paul’s absence (rest) as Houston won its 10th game of 11. Friday’s show recaps a close win vs. Phoenix, led by strong two-way play by Harden (41/11); a successful return by Danuel House (18); and cold shooting (11/40 on 3s).
32 min
182
Cousins outduels Capela as Warriors salvage fin...
DeMarcus Cousins (27/8/7) had his best game as a Warrior and outplayed Clint Capela as Houston’s 9-game winning streak ended in a 106-104 loss. Thursday’s show breaks it down, including what it means, how to fix it, and why the No. 1 race is likely over.
37 min
183
House returns, and what Rockets vs. Warriors me...
Wednesday’s show explores Danuel House’s looming return and previews the last regular-season clash between the Rockets (42-25) and Warriors (45-21). Topics include game keys, a seeding breakdown, and why the “statement” angle only applies to Golden State.
41 min
184
Nine straight! Capela, Gordon swarm Hornets as ...
Clint Capela (19/15) owned the glass, Eric Gordon (22, 50% FG) stayed hot, Kenneth Faried (16/9) came back healthy, and James Harden (28/10) and Chris Paul (10/10) returned to form as Houston (42-25) took its 9th straight in a 118-106 win over Charlotte.
33 min
185
Houston puts D in Dallas as Rockets win 8th str...
Houston (41-25) took its 8th straight game with a rare combo of defense and Eric Gordon (26) in a 94-93 win at Dallas. Recap topics include how they’ve held 3 straight teams below 100 and why James Harden and CP3’s struggles (25% FG) aren't too troubling.
32 min
186
RECAP: Seven straight! Sixers swarmed by Harden...
Houston (40-25) won its 7th straight and again over a contender in Friday’s 107-91 beatdown of Philly. Our recap hits the highlights, led by tough defense; strong games by Harden (31/10) and Clint Capela (18/9); and Eric Gordon’s resurgence (5/9 on 3s).
30 min
187
On the Faried, Shumpert injuries and House's co...
Friday's show explores news and notes on off-court items, including injuries to Kenneth Faried (adductor strain) and Iman Shumpert (knee, calf); the ongoing contract stalemate with Danuel House Jr.; and how Shumpert and House's situations are intertwined.
34 min
188
Matt Thomas on the streak, Harden's MVP exploit...
Home PA and road radio play-by-play voice Matt Thomas joins Thursday’s show. Topics include the six-game streak; James Harden’s MVP case; improved play by Chris Paul and the bench; and whether Kenneth Faried or Austin Rivers is a higher priority to keep.
31 min
189
Six-pack: Streak continues in Toronto with defe...
Six in a row! Houston (39-25) became the West’s No. 3 after a statement win Tuesday at Toronto (46-19). Our recap breaks it down, led by James Harden’s MVP heroics (19 points in 4th); defensive improvements; and physicality by Clint Capela (15 rebounds).
32 min
190
RECAP: Harden, Gordon launch Rockets in Boston
James Harden (42) and Eric Gordon (32) hit 14 3s as Houston (38-25) won its 5th straight with a big win at Boston. Our recap explores Harden finally solving Boston’s defense; EG’s role as a key variable; and soaring confidence after another “upside win.”
35 min
191
Houston rallies past Miami behind Harden's 58, ...
Despite spotty defense, Houston (37-25) overcame a 21-point deficit in the second half in Thursday's win vs. Miami, led by 58 points from MVP James Harden and resurgent performances from Austin Rivers (17 points, 7/8 FG) and Gary Clark (14/5, 56% FG).
38 min
192
Bijani on bigger lineups, Harden's 3-point slum...
The Athletic's Alykhan Bijani joins Ben DuBose to discuss Mike D'Antoni's bigger starting lineup (Tucker-Faried-Capela); the slump by James Harden on 3s (2-of-20 vs. Lakers, Hawks); and the resurgence of Chris Paul (averaging 22/11 since All-Star break).
30 min
193
RECAP: Harden's streak ends, but CP3 leads anot...
The 30+ point run for James Harden (28) ended at 32 games, but Houston (35-25) still got a needed win vs. Atlanta. Tuesday's show recaps Harden's off night (7/21 FG); a lineup change (Tucker, Faried, Capela); and more elite play by Chris Paul (20/8/6).
33 min
194
In relative defense of Tilman Fertitta
Monday's show pushes back on “cheap” narratives around owner Tilman Fertitta, as Ben explains how recent moves at the trade deadline (Iman Shumpert) and in buyout season (Markieff Morris, Danuel House) were dictated by factors beyond willingness to spend.
35 min
195
RECAP: Playoff CP3 returns as bigger, Harden-le...
Sunday's show celebrates a stunner without James Harden at Golden State. Topics include Chris Paul (23/17) showing elite playoff form; success by a big frontcourt of Faried (20/10), Tucker (18/10), and Capela (8/15); and the value of another “upside win.”
34 min
196
Shooting woes, Scott Foster headline bad loss i...
Friday's show breaks down Houston’s collapse in Los Angeles. Topics include shooting concerns (12/41 on 3s); more nonsense from referee Scott Foster (Lakers 17, Rockets 0 on FTs in final 20 minutes); and the signings of Chris Chiozza and Terrence Jones.
39 min
197
Injury updates for Capela and Shumpert, and the...
Wednesday's show explores the return of starting center Clint Capela (thumb) to the lineup and the unexpected absence for at least two games by wing Iman Shumpert (knee), including the role of Thursday's signings in potentially filling Shumpert's minutes.
23 min
198
On Fertitta's interview, Thursday contract upda...
Tuesday's show explores a new interview with owner Tilman Fertitta on Houston’s roster and luxury-tax strategy; how both required roster additions by Thursday could be on 10-day contracts; and why recent gossip over James Harden's happiness is overblown.
32 min
199
Former NBA scout on Harden, Paul, and playoff p...
Former NBA scout Bryan Oringher analyzes the Rockets from a scout’s perspective. Topics include differences in how teams perceive James Harden and Chris Paul relative to narratives; what Houston might look like when healthy; and areas for roster upgrades.
29 min
200
On Morris choosing OKC, and what options are left
Friday's show explores the reasoning and ripple effects of big man Markieff Morris picking Oklahoma City over Houston after securing his buyout. Topics include why Morris chose OKC; what happens next; and whether the road could lead back to Danuel House.
33 min