Final Score: Houston Rockets 105, Detroit Pistons
Auburn Hills, MI (Sporting Alert) — James Harden adjusted quickly to his new life in Houston by leading the Rockets to battle 105-96 victory over the Detroit Pistons on his debut at The Palace of Auburn Hills on Wednesday night.
Video Highlights: Watch Harden’s 37 on Debut For Rockets
Harden, who was traded from the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Rockets over the weekend, scored 37 points in 14 of 25 shooting from the field – 12 assists, six rebounds and four steals in the win for Houston on the road.
Harden was only three points shy of tying a career-high of 40 points. The six-man of the year last year, started seven games in three seasons at the Thunder, but is now looking forward to playing a more advanced role in helping the Rockets win more games.
His 12 assists, however, were a career best.
Carlos Delfino had 15 points, while Jeremy Lin collected 12 points and eight assists for the Rockets, which shot 49.4 percent from the field.
Omer Asik added 12 points and nine rebounds and Chandler Parsons contributed 11 points, seven boards and six helpers in the win.
Brandon Knight led the Pistons in scoring with 15 points. He also had four rebounds and as many assists.
Greg Monroe supported with 14 points and eight rebounds and the veteran Tayshaun Prince added 12 points for the Pistons, who were outscored 33-15 in the final quarter of the game.
