The Houston Rockets kicked off the first half of a back to back Wednesday night on the road versus the Charlotte Hornets. For the second time this week Houston struggled against an opponent that on paper seemed like an easy victory. The Rockets trailed through most of the game until a late rally and clutch free throws from James Harden sealed their third straight victory. Houston is now 36-25, first in the Southwest Division and fifth in the Western Conference.

Goofy uniform, serious game

The Hornets sported their throwback striped jerseys in celebration of their 30th season, and Kemba Walker made them look good. The three time All Star was disinterested in allowing the Rockets an easy win on his court, exploding for 35 points, 4 assists, 4 rebounds, and 5 steals. This marks the second straight game where the Rockets have allowed an opponent to score 35 or more points.

Foul Trouble and Big Boards

Kenneth Faried and Clint Capela have been adjusting to sharing the floor since Capela's return from injury after the All-Star break. Wednesday night provided no such opportunity, as "The Manimal" picked up four quick fouls and was relegated to eight minutes for the night. Capela seized the opportunity and crashed the boards in the sort of fashion fans had become accustomed to prior to his injury. Capela finished the night 10-16 from the field with 23 points and 17 rebounds.

Working through some things

Despite the streak ending Monday, Harden was once again back into 30-point territory, finishing with 30 points even to close out the night. Once again, however, Harden's performance beyond the arc was abysmal. The reigning MVP has acknowledged that his neck is still bothering him since sitting out Saturday night against the Golden State Warriors, and after a 1-11 three-point output Harden has now shot 1-21 on the week. While a slump like this is obviously concerning, it's hard to ignore the fact that he still put up 30.

Rockets Player of the Game

Clint Capela: 23 points, 2 assists, 17 rebounds, 1 block

Hornets Player of the Game

Kemba Walker: 35 points, 4 assists, 4 rebounds, 5 steals

Up next:

The Rockets host the Miami Heat tonight at 7 p.m. central