Houston Rockets head coach Mike D'Antoni believes his team benefited from James Harden's poor start in Game 3 of their first round series against the Utah Jazz.
Harden went 0-of-15 from the field to start Game 3, but the Rockets still managed to win by three points. In his presser before Game 4, D'Antoni said that knowing they can win despite Harden's woes helped boost the team's confidence.
"It gave us a shot of confidence knowing we could withstand that and still win." – Mike D'Antoni on Houston overcoming James Harden going 0-of-15 to start in Game 3. #HOUatUTA #NBA
— John Coon (@johncoonsports) April 23, 2019
Mike D'Antoni's comments are certainly understandable. It is no secret that Houston relies more on Harden than perhaps any team in the league does with their superstar. Regardless, D'Antoni knows the importance of not becoming one-dimensional.
James Harden was eventually able to overcome his horrid start to the game by finishing with 22 points and 10 assists. His shooting struggles forced the rest of the team to pick up the slack on offense. They were certainly able to answer the call after five other Rockets finished with double figures in scoring.
The Rockets are well aware that all roads to the championship will eventually lead through the Golden State Warriors. Although Harden is one of the best players in the league, they will need to find a way to click on all cylinders if they hope to get over the hump this postseason.
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