Putting up a fight

While the tension is flaring in the OKC vs. Houston playoff series, the fact remains: No team wants to start their off-season in April. While the Thunder came into the series as the heavy favorite, the season-ending injury to Russell Westbrook has made them seem mortal. That and the fact Chandler Parsons is putting up near triple-doubles that have only been matched by two other Rocket’s players (Hakeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson) doesn't hurt either.

The last Monday in April, the Rockets kept their playoff hopes alive, beating OKC at the buzzer in a 105-103 victory. Though superstar James Harden missed three crucial shots in the final 1:23 of the game, his team was actually fueled by an unlikely trio; Chandler Parsons, Omer Asik, and Patrick Beverley. Harden added 10 turnovers to his poor shooting, but the two former second-round picks, and the new rookie acquired in January from Russia came up with some huge plays to make sure the Rockets avoid a series sweep.

Parsons, a forward for the Rockets, had 27 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists. He was helped out by Omar Asik who had 17 points and 14 rebounds. Though these stat lines are impressive, the best player in the game is also one of the best players in THE game. Kevin Durant of the Thunder didn't want to roll over while his team had a chance to end their first round early. He dropped 38 points, had eight rebounds, and also dished out six dimes.

While the Rockets may not have enough in the tank to beat OKC in the series, this was a statement game for them. The fact is the team has a plethora of young talent, and an absolute floor general and superstar in James Harden. Will showings like this be enough to entice Dwight Howard to leave the Lakers and help the Rockets become a contender?

Photo courtesy of The Score