Dwight Howard, the prized free-agent acquisition of the Houston Rockets and the subject of much talk during the offseason from disgruntled Lakers fans, played his first game as a Houston Rocket on Saturday and looked impressive in his debut for the Texas-based franchise.
Although the Rockets lost to the New Orleans Pelicans, 116-115, the story of the pre-season game was Howard playing like the old DH12 back in his Orlando Magic days as he posted impressive numbers of 19 points on 6/11 field goals, 9 rebounds, 3 assists and a block. Howard also made a good chunk of his free throws, sinking 7 out of 11 attempts in just 27 minutes of action.
"I think he looked good," All-Star teammate James Harden said as quoted by CSN Houston.com. "He looked real athletic. Explosive." Coach Kevin McHale also praised Howard, saying he looked good on the court. "Active, had some blocked shots, rebounded, came over. I thought he did some nice stuff."
Howard's first two attempts were blocked by sophomore Anthony Davis and reserve center Greg Steisma. His first field goal as a member of the Rockets came in the first half when he made a hook shot from a Jeremy Lin pass.
"I'm just happy to get it going," Howard said. "It came pretty quick after free agency, training camp and all that. But I think we're going to have a great season. I'm looking forward to finishing these preseason games off and getting ready for the season."
The Rockets are among the title favorites out west with their acquisition of Howard, a three-time defensive player of the year who led the Magic to the 2009 NBA Finals.
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