The Houston Rockets' Chris Paul has no issue with head coach Mike D'Antoni's decision to bench him with over four minutes remaining in their game versus the Golden State Warriors Tuesday. Paul had an early rest, but Houston managed to complete its comeback and stun the reigning champions for a 122-121 win.
According to reports, Paul's knee injury was the reason why D'Antoni took him out of the game with 4:47 left in the fourth quarter. The All-Star point guard is dealing with left knee soreness. In Paul's time speaking to reporters after the victory, he sounded okay with the benching.
He mentioned the communication he has with D'Antoni. Paul also lauded the depth the Rockets have.
Scoring-wise, Paul did not have the best debut for the Rockets. In 33 minutes of action, the 32-year-old only tallied four points on 2-of-9 shooting from the field. He made up for it by also recording eight rebounds, 11 assists, two steals, and one block. Once Paul is healthy, it is highly likely for him to be a top-scorer for the Western Conference powerhouse. Last season, he averaged 18.1 points per outing for the Los Angeles Clippers.
Team effort
Houston Rockets head coach Mike D'Antoni only used eight players Tuesday, but all of them had significant contributions in the victory. Leading the way was Paul's backcourt partner, James Harden.
The MVP candidate in the previous season had a double-double 27 points and 10 assists. He added six rebounds and a steal.
Harden's fellow starters, big men Ryan Anderson and Clint Capela, chipped in 13 and 12 points respectively for Houston. Eric Gordon (24 points), P.J. Tucker (20 points), and Luc Mbah a Moute (14 points) scored in double figures too.
All three veterans came off the bench for the Rockets.
Rockets' schedule
Chris Paul and the Houston Rockets are going to be busy for the remainder of October. After topping the Golden State Warriors at the Oracle Arena, they are still on the road for a matchup with the Sacramento Kings tonight.
The Rockets will then head back to Houston for a two-game homestand where they are going to face the Dallas Mavericks (October 21) and the Memphis Grizzlies (October 23).
It is followed by a three-game road trip to take on the Philadelphia 76ers (25th), Charlotte Hornets (27th), and the Memphis Grizzlies (28th).
The Rockets are closing the month of October in Houston. They are set to have a rematch with the 76ers at the Toyota Center on the 30th.
