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Phoenix Suns (36-33) vs. Houston Rockets (46-22)
Time, TV: Saturday, Mar. 21, – 8:00 PM ET on NBA League Pass
Projected Starting Lineups:
Phoenix Suns: PG: Eric Bledsoe, SG: P.J. Tucker, SF: Marcus Morris, PF: Markieff Morris, C: Brandan Wright
Houston Rockets: PG: Patrick Beverley, SG: James Harden, SF: Trevor Ariza, PF: Terrence Jones, C: Donatas Motiejunas
The reeling Phoenix Suns will look to revive their season one last time when they go head-to-head against the Houston Rockets.
After trading away Goran Dragic at the trade deadline, the Suns have been miserable. They have also dealt with a variety of injuries, including most recently to center Alex Len who was really playing outstanding before going down. As has been the case since Jeff Hornacek took over as head coach, this is a team with a lot of intriguing parts, but one that ultimately lacks an identity right now.
The Rockets on the other hand have surprised everyone so far. Despite all the problems they have encountered, especially Dwight Howard missing a big chunk of the season, they have remained one of the West’s best teams. A lot of credit has to go to James Harden for his MVP-caliber season, highlighted by a 50-point effort in a win over the Denver Nuggets. The Rockets still have a funky bench where Josh Smith is somehow still allowed to come in and jack up three-pointers, but otherwise they are in terrific shape coming into the playoffs.
The key matchup for this game will be Eric Bledsoe vs. Patrick Beverley. A lot of the Suns’ offense depends on Bledsoe’s ability to penetrate, and Beverley will be tasked with the difficult assignment of keeping him out of the lane and forcing him to make jump shots. If Beverley can pester Bledsoe early and stall the Suns’ offense, the Rockets will be in great shape to win this game.
Ultimately, I see the Rockets taking this. Harden continues to pour it on and the Suns will not be able to provide any answer to stopping him. Look for the Rockets to win big.
Prediction: Rockets 115, Suns 97
Dan Schultz is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on twitter @dschultz89. “Like” him on Facebook and add him on Google.
