The Grizzlies and the Rockets' G1 kicked off in Memphis first.
Hansen had spent a lot on the first round, and Joerger had arranged for Guy to guard Harden.
The result was that Guy couldn't handle it.
Harden hadn't peaked yet, but after two seasons as the main ball handler, his skills had greatly improved compared to his time with the Thunders.
His signature move, the step-back jumper, had reached perfection, and his three-point shooting while dribbling had also greatly improved. Paul's presence also gave him more opportunities for catch-and-shoot after off-ball screens.
One point not to be ignored is that, after studying the league rules at nightclubs until four in the morning, his ability to draw fouls had greatly increased.
In this game he made 7 out of 17 shots, and from 15 free throws, he scored all 15, totaling 32 points.
Such a performance let the Rockets split the scores evenly with the Grizzlies by the end of the third quarter.
