The move of Ben McLemore into the Rockets starting lineup was made largely to allow Danuel House Jr. to play more minutes as a backup for P.J. Tucker at power forward. There was hope that playing on the second unit with Russell Westbrook at the point could also help House get going.
“Without a doubt, we’re much more dynamic with (House) at the four when Russ is there,” Rockets coach Mike D’Antoni said. “Now, everybody’s got to push and get in transition.”
In his five games prior to Wednesday, House had made just 8 of 19 shots, 4 of 12 3s.