With the Rockets coming to town I was expecting a shootout and that’s exactly what we got Sunday in Sacramento. Both teams shot over 50% from the field and almost 300 points were scored with 74 three point attempts between both teams. This was a game all about offense, and in the end, that played in Houston’s favor.

The final score seems to indicate a closer game than it actually was. The Rockets jumped out to a big early lead and were able to hold serve for the most part. Ryan Anderson hit 4 of his 6 three pointers in the first six minutes of the game and he finished with 21 points on 7-9 shooting. Five Rockets players finished with at least 16 points scored, led by James Harden. Harden led the entire game in points (35), assists (15), rebounds (11) and turnovers (10).

The Kings managed to make a few runs in the second half, led by rookie Skal Labissiere and Ty Lawson. Lawson finished with 20 points and 11 assists starting in Darren Collison’s place. Skal had one of the best games of his career so far, scoring 25 points on 10-12 shooting to go with 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals. Skal also saw some time at Center for what feels like the first time this year, and that was actually a fairly successful lineup for the Kings. Skal finished with a team-high +12 in a game that Sacramento trailed by double-digits for most of the game.

Buddy Hield got off to a good start but struggled as the game went on. He shot just 4-16 overall and 1-8 from three and really couldn’t do anything to stop Houston’s guard heavy attack on the other end. Defensively he still has a lot to work on.

The Kings now have a day off before their home season finale on Tuesday against the Suns.

For the opponent’s perspective, visit The Dream Shake.

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