The Houston Rockets looked like a well-oiled machine for three quarters, building a huge lead while the starters were playing, before the reserves let things tighten up bit, but still resulting in a 104-97 Rockets victory.
The Rockets led 90-73 after three quarters, however, and the starters looked as good as one could hope for the first on-court appearance of the season.
The offense was sharp, particularly from downtown, as Houston hit 24-55 on their three-pointers. and the Rockets finished with five of their main rotation in double figures.
Eric Gordon led the way in the scoring department with 21 points, including shooting 6-8 from deep, while Trevor Ariza finished with 18 and was equally as hot from downtown, knocking down 5-7.