Dwight Howard is clearly back in perfect shape after a double-double performance against Denver Nuggets. Howard who suffered from a knee injury which caused him to miss the last 11 games is undoubtedly in 100% perfect working condition.
Playing his way from injury, Howard scored 26 points and grabbed 13 rebounds. Howard's knee injury had kept him on the sideline since Nov 17. Last Saturday's game was definitely a relief for the Rockets. The Rockets have got 8-4 without Howard on the lineup. A great disadvantage compared to the 10-1 record they have posted when Howard on the team playing his best.
Although hampered by injuries in the latter part of his playing career, it is clear, judging by his latest performance that the knee injury will no longer be a problem for the rest of the season. When asked about his injury, Howard replied that it only goes stiff every time he is on the bench. When playing on the hard court, he looks like a rabid wolf hungry for every position.
Howard showcased a great display of how a dominant big man should be. He made nine of his 11 shot on the floor while grabbing 13 rebounds on the way. Howard is definitely back, although his free-throw shooting still bugged the superstar. He only made eight out of 17 free throws. A common handicap that has been a constant problem for most big-men in the league.
James Harden, who was recently traded to Houston from Oklahoma, had a triple-double. Coming up with 24 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists. The power forward from Lithuania, Donatas Motiejunas, added 25 points while veteran Trevor Ariza scored an additional 13 points. Howard's impressive come-back performance could pose a new and positive light for the Houston Rockets. With this win, the Rockets is on their two game winning streak making their season record 18-5. Just one game shy of their division leader Memphis Grizzlies which holds a current record of 19-4.
