The Houston Rockets were ready to face an actual opponent after traing camp ends and the preseason began. Tuesday night brought the young, rebuilt Memphis Grizzlies into the Rockets sights. Overall the team struggled more than they should’ve but were led by an early offensive boost to the newest Houston Rocket Ron Artest. Artest put up 12 points in the first quarter including a back-to-back 3 pointer with Rafer Alston. Ron-Ron struggled with his shot however in the second half only scoring 3 more points to end with 15.
On a different note Carl Landry made a return to glory in many fans eyes with his explosiveness that he was lacking after injury last season. Landry led the team in scoring with 18 points and added 9 rebounds. Brent Barry who is a new addition this season helped seal the victory with clutch time free-throws. Yao Ming played only 22 minutes and contributed 10 points and 9 boards. Yao looked effected by the pace of the game but said afterwards that it felt ‘new’ and that it would take some time to get rolling once again. Other key contributions came from Mike Harris who also added 9 rebounds as well as Aaron Brooks who scored 13 points and 5 assists. The Rockets play the Spurs next on Thursday.
