James Harden leads Rockets to victory over Clippers

Rockets, Celtics maintain their winning streak in Wednesday’s matches, Lakers win first game without Anthony Davis

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ANKARA (AA) – The Houston Rockets defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 102-93 late Wednesday to earn their fifth consecutive win in the young NBA season.

Rockets star James Harden shone with 47 points, 7 assists and 6 rebounds, as he assumed a big role by scoring 17 points in the last quarter to lead his team to the victory.

Harden maintained his flawless start to the new season, becoming second player in the NBA history to average 38 points in first 11 games since NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain did it first.

Chamberlain still holds the record for first 11 games by averaging 48.2 points in the 1961-1962 season and 52.2 points in the 1962-1963 season.

The Rockets’ All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook produced 17 points, while Clint Capela posted double-double with 12 points and 20 rebounds.

Capela became the first player in the Rockets history since Moses Malone to produce at least 20 rebounds in three straight games.

Lastly, Moses Malone had achieved it in 1982.

On the losing side, Clippers star, reigning Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard scored 26 points and 12 rebounds.

- Anthony Davis-less Lakers beat Warriors at home

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Golden State Warriors late Wednesday 120-94 in their first game without star player Anthony Davis this season.

LeBron James performed double-double with 23 points and 12 assists in three quarters while Kyle Kuzma and JaVale McGee also helped their team's victory at the Staples Center, scoring 22 and 18 points, respectively.

D'Angelo Russell was the top performer for the Warriors, scoring 21 points and grabbing 8 rebounds against his former team.

- Celtics defeat Wizards to continue winning streak

In another Wednesday game, the Boston Celtics defeated the Washington Wizards 140-133 to extend their winning streak to 9 games.

Kemba Walker had 25 points and Jaylen Brown gained 22 points to help the Celtics remain unbeaten at home, theTD Garden.

Bradley Beal from the Wizards was the highest scorer on the court with 44 points but his effort could not avoid loss over the Celtics.

- Here are the results of Wednesday’s matches in the NBA:

*Orlando Magic - Philadelphia 76ers: 112-97

*Charlotte Hornets - Memphis Grizzlies: 117-119

*Boston Celtics - Washington Wizards: 140-133

*Houston Rockets - Los Angeles Clippers: 102-93

*Minnesota Timberwolves - San Antonio Spurs: 129-114

*Portland Trail Blazers - Toronto Raptors: 106-114