James Harden was listed as questionable for Thursday night’s game against the Boston Celtics (20-14), but there was nothing questionable about his performance. The reigning MVP dropped 45 points, his eighth straight game scoring 30 plus, leading the Rockets (19-15) to a 127-113 win.
“It’s hard to describe,” coach Mike D’Antoni said. “He just has a mastery of the game and an ease at which he plays. It’s fun to watch.”
Harden’s dominance began straight from the jump. He hit five three-pointers on his way to 17 points and four assists in the first quarter. The Rockets ended the quarter up 11, and were able to extend the lead to a game-high 17 early in the second quarter thanks to strong play from their bench.