New York Knicks vs. Houston Rockets Keys To The Game

Nov 21, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New York Knicks guard Arron Afflalo (4) drives the ball as Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) defends during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Matchup Of The Game: James Harden vs. Arron Afflalo

Just like the first time these two games met up, Harden and Afflalo will be the matchup to keep an eye on. The Rockets will go as far as Harden can take them, so if the Knicks are to pick up a victory tonight Afflalo will have to step up and slow him down.

In the game last weekend, Harden was held relatively in check. He scored 24 points, going 8-of-20 from the field. He added 10 assists and seven rebounds, stuffing the stat sheet but being held relatively in check offensively. The reason for that? The Knicks avoided putting him on the foul line. Harden attempted on five free-throws in the game, well below the 11.7 that he has averaged this season.

If the Knicks are able to do that again, it will go a long way in defeating the Rockets. Afflalo will not be alone, as the Knicks will need a team effort defensively to contain Harden once again. Afflalo will be the first in line to do so, but it will be a team effort. Afflalo will also have to chip in offensively and take advantage of Harden’s shortcomings defensively.

Afflalo had a tough shooting game the first time around, making only 6-of-18 from the field for 16 points. But, that 18 shots is something you like to see as it means that he is making Harden work on both ends of the court and not coast while playing defense. Harden is notorious for not giving his all defensively, so if Aflalo can take advantage, like he is capable of, it will help the Knicks a lot.

Afflalo doesn’t have to make shots to make Harden work, he just has to attempt them. You know that Harden will do it to Afflalo while he plays offense, so it will be a matchup to keep an eye on all evening.

Next: Repeat Performance?