The excitement for the Brooklyn Nets is waning after a trio of defeats to less-heralded teams. The scoring is there (120 PPG, 3rd in the league) but the defense is unfortunately lacking (122 PPG, 27th in the league). Next in line is a Houston Rockets team that can light up the scoreboard in a hurry.

Still, this is an intriguing match-up, as the Rockets are also among the worst defensive teams in the league.

The always mysterious Kyrie Irving

Another season, and another controversy for Kyrie Irving. It’s been reported that the team are concerned with the “mood swings” of its superstar guard. Such concerns are not like an injury, but if things continue to go south in the standings, they may start to consider trading Kyrie.

What’s undoubtable however, is Irving’s ability to score. He’s been racking up points, and as expected, he’s pacing the Nets in scoring with 35.3 points per game on a respectable 47.3%-shooting. Look for him to maintain that type of intensity on offense this Saturday; Russell Westbrook isn’t an elite defender and Irving should be able to provide another night of scoring.

Caris LeVert is looking good

Many have touted LeVert as the possible winner of this season’s Most Improved Player of the Year award, and he’s looking sharp so far. The 25-year-old is averaging 18.5 PPG and slowly proving to be a reliable second option. He should have an easy bucket anytime he’s matched-up with James Harden’s defense.

The Rockets are being the Rockets

The Rockets’ best defense is their ferocious offense. They are currently 29th in points allowed and defensive rating, and they try to survive it by having the number one scoring and offensive rating in the league. Just this past game, their defense surrendered 158 points to the Washington Wizards in regulation, which was ultimately fine since the offense dropped 159. Harden was in mid-season form and scored an NBA season-high 59.

We can’t expect Harden to get 59 or anywhere that range against the Nets, but it’s not to say that the points won’t come in bunches. “The Beard” is again leading the league in scoring at 36.8 PPG, with his fishing expedition also top-notch as he is getting to the line 16.5 times per contest.

A fourth-straight triple-double season

Russell Westbrook is on pace for yet another season of triple-doubles. He’s registering 22.5 points, 12 rebounds, and 10.5 assists per game through four outings.

The love for stats could be a problem in the long run but the Rockets will cross the bridge when they get there. They are 3-1, with the only loss being an unexpected collapse that happened against the Bucks after they led for the majority of the game.

PREDICTION:

The Rockets win. Expect big points from Harden and Irving.