Kevin Martin led the Houston Rockets with 20 points, but the team's bench proved most powerful as the West's No. 9 seed picked up an expected but vital 112-87 win over the New Jersey Nets on Tuesday. Houston is trying to catch the Memphis Grizzlies or New Orleans Hornets for a playoff spot, but the chase has proved difficult.
Rockets Vs. Nets: Kevin Martin, Bench Power Praying Houston Past New Jersey
Martin wasn't as efficient as usual, hitting 7-18 shots. But Kyle Lowry added 16 points and 10 assists, and the reserve unit scored an even 50. Patrick Patterson and Goran Dragic scored 13 each. Brook Lopez led all Nets with 22 points, shooting 10-16 from the floor. The rest of New Jersey's roster shot 37 percent.
Deron Williams sat out, but is expected to play in Wednesday's national TV showdown against the New York Knicks. It's unclear whether Williams will then continue to play the final two weeks of the season. Reports have suggested playing on his injured wrist won't cause greater damage.
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