As the Houston Rockets defeated the Portland Trail Blazers, 140-116, to pull to a 1-1 record in NBA Cup play and an 8-3 record on the season, they were able to match their opponents' intensity, beating them at their own game en route to another dominant offensive performance.
As the Rockets attempt to establish themselves as serious championship contenders this season, they will need to be able to put forward a variety of offensive attacks in order to account for the sheer amount of competition they will see in the Western Conference.
Their handy victory over a scrappy Portland team is an excellent sign for their ability to do so.