Rockets vs. Heat: Chandler Parsons the Key to Victory for Houston

The Houston Rockets (27-23) have won five of their last six games, scoring an average of 117.2 points per game. Chandler Parsons is a big reason for the recent surge.

They will face a tough task going up against the Miami Heat (31-14) on Wednesday. Miami has gotten the best of Houston the last six times the teams have met, including the last three at AmericanAirlines Arena.

Parsons is coming off a 16-point effort against Golden State that included eight assists. The Rockets tied an NBA record with 23 made shots from beyond the arc in the game and Parsons contributed four three-pointers of his own.

In the past five games, Parsons is shooting 59 percent from the floor. 

Three-point shooting is common for the Rockets, who are second in the league in points this season, averaging 105.8 per game.

The Rockets are riding a wave right into Miami in what they hope will be the end of their six game skid against the defending champs.

Houston has begun to spread the ball which has been vital to its success.

When James Harden was playing in isolation, the Rockets season looked lost. We’re starting to see just how dangerous an offensive team this is when the ball is moving. Contributions from a variety of players, including Jeremy Lin, have resulted in a quick turnaround and has seemed to get their season back on track.

The ball movement has allowed Parsons to get open looks at the basket, something that needs to continue against Miami.

Last time these teams met, in November, it was Parsons who had the big game. He scored 25 points, hitting five from long range.

This game will be a test of just how good the Rockets can be. Coming off their best performance of the year, there’s no time for rest.

Parsons will be looked at to guard LeBron James, which isn’t easy for anyone. But, he has tremendous energy and plays stingy, tight defense. 

Last year, he flustered Kobe Bryant with his defensive ability, holding him to 29 points on 27 shots. The Rockets need Parsons to limit LeBron’s chances.

While his minutes have been steady and his performance last night ended with a flight to Miami, adrenaline will keep Parsons ready to play. 

The Rockets will rely on him, both offensively and defensively, if they’re going to pull this one out.