ROCKETS ROUT WARRIORS

Stellar defense continues as Rockets pummel Curry-less Warriors

There is strength in numbers and the Rockets had it Thursday night in a rematch of last year's Western Conference Finals. Following reports that the Rockets are parting ways with Carmelo Anthony, Houston used an impressive defensive performance and a barrage of three-pointers to crush the Warriors 107-86. The win improves the Rockets (7-7) to .500 on the season and drops Golden State to 12-4. The Warriors were without Stephen Curry, but Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green were shut down -- not a single three-pointer (0-9) was made between the bunch. James Harden finished with 27 points, James Ennis added 19 and Eric Gordon chipped in 17 off the pine. Chris Paul (10 points, 7 assists, 3 steals, 2 blocks) was key in the fourth. Harden and Paul combined for just three turnovers. Most impressive for the Rockets was the fact that rookies Gary Clark and Isaiah Hartenstein each played roles in the win. Clark hit 3-3 from long range in the third quarter when the Rockets started to distance from the Warriors.