This looked like a laugher early on, but this shorthanded Charlotte team fought back in the second half to make it a game. In fact, the Rockets led by 20 at the half, as the Hornets fought all the way back to take a lead with a few minutes left. The key difference for Houston was their transition offense, as they won the fastbreak battle, 25 - 2. The Rockets also took advantage of the whistle, attempting 24 more free - throws than the Hornets. James Harden added another triple - double to his tally, leading the team with 40 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. Only seven other players took the court for Houston, but they all scored between five and 16 points. Kemba Walker had to carry the load with Nicolas Batum (knee) injured, as he led Charlotte with 25 points, six rebounds and 10 assists. The Hornets bench kept them hanging around, as Spencer Hawes, Marco Belinelli and Frank Kaminsky combined for 53 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists.
["TeamStat(G,'Hornets') has 20 Wins ."]