The Houston Rockets (36 - 16) held off the Phoenix Suns (29 - 25) in a shootout Tuesday, winning 127 - 118. James Harden was once again the story of the night as he torched the Suns for his sixth 40 - point performance of the season. Harden finished the night with 40 points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists in 43 minutes on the floor. 20 of his 40 points came in the fourth quarter as the Rockets were able to stave off a huge comeback by the Suns. Houston has now won all three games against Phoenix this season. Houston was coming off a tough 109 - 98 loss at home to Portland on Sunday, but was able to bounce back in Phoenix. The Rockets were without Terrence Jones for this game after being ruled out with flu - like symptoms. Despite being under - manned up front, the Rockets were able to out - rebound the Suns 47 - 39. The Rockets have a meeting with the Clippers in Los Angeles on Wednesday before heading into the All-Star Break. Phoenix heads into the break having lost four of its last five games. The Suns stormed back from an early 18 - point deficit to make the game competitive, but were unable to secure the victory. Eric Bledsoe returned from his one - game absence (paternity leave) and played very well. Bledsoe ended the night with 32 points, four rebounds, and four assists. The Suns will return to action Feb. 20 against the Timberwolves.
["TeamStat(G,'Suns') has 25 Losses ,has 118 Total points ,has 39 Rebounds ,has 29 Wins ."
 "TeamStat(G,'Rockets') has 16 Losses ,has 127 Total points ,has 47 Rebounds ,has 36 Wins ."]