The winless Houston Rockets hosted the winless New Orleans Pelicans Saturday night. Poor shooting and continued early season chemistry issues contributed to a closer game than it should have been. Russell Westbrook heroics late in the fourth would ice the Pelicans, however and the Rockets secured their first win of the 2019-2020 season

Slow start from Harden

A winless New Orleans team maintained their reputation as a pesky out against the Rockets once again Saturday night. James Harden did very little to help Houston pull away to start the contest, shooting 1-10 from beyond the arc in the first half. Harden would finish with 29 points, but 2-18 from three on the evening can be looked at as a major reason why the Pelicans were able to remain in the game for so long.

Westbrook makes history

Westbrook unleashed himself upon a hapless Pelicans team to the tune of 28 points, 13 assists, and 10 rebounds. In his second consecutive triple double as a Rocket, Westbrook passed Magic Johnson for the second most triple-doubles in NBA history.

Chemistry still developing

The Rockets on paper are clearly the superior team, but basketball is a finesse sport that is predicated on repetition and timing. Houston's main ball handlers are clearly still developing this with their new teammates as James Harden and Westbrook combined for 12 turnovers tonight.

Rockets Player of the Night

Russell Westbrook: 28 points, 13 assists, 10 rebounds, 1 steal

Pelicans Player of the Night

Brandon Ingram: 35 points, 5 assists, 15 rebounds