The Houston Rockets just finished up a run of games against the top teams in the Eastern Conference (and the Atlanta Hawks). Not only did they go three for three against the top East teams, but their top three players each had a turn willing the team to victory.

Aaron Gordon rejoined Denver’s starting lineup on Wednesday night against the Knicks, with Russell Westbrook staying in the lineup and Christian Braun moving to the bench.

Michael Shapiro is a sports reporter for Chron, covering the Astros, Rockets, Texans and every team in town. Michael is a Denver native and graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, and a noted fan of pull-up threes, wide-receiver passes and a good hot fudge sundae.

Which McDonald’s All-Americans turned their selection into a career-defining moment? These five players made the most of their shot on the big

Nuggets head coach Michael Malone made a lineup change on Wednesday night, benching Christian Braun for Aaron Gordon against the Knicks.

NEW YORK (AP) — Jalen Brunson had 30 points and 15 assists, OG Anunoby scored 23 points and the New York Knicks beat the Denver Nuggets 122-112 on Wednesday night for their fifth straight victory.

The Rockets announced their presence as a title contender this week, but everyone is still chasing Oklahoma City in the West. 1. Oklahoma City Thunder (37-8, Last Week No. 1). The Thunder went 3-2 in this stretch of games without either Chet Holmgren or Isaiah Hartenstien,

The Rockets seem leery of trading for De'Aaron Fox. Will that extend to deals for other veterans that could raise their ceiling by breaking up their young core?

Also, how will it affect our power rankings? All good things to ponder as our NBA insiders break down this week's list. Note: Team rankings are based on where members of our panel (ESPN's Tim Bontemps,

James Harden (24), Norman Powell (23) and Ivica Zubac (25) all scored 20+ points in the loss, snapping LA’s two-game win streak. Kawhi Leonard played a season-high 28 minutes and finished with 17 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and a block.

CHICAGO (AP) — Nikola Vucevic had 20 points, 10 rebounds and six assists, and the Chicago Bulls handed the Denver Nuggets their second straight loss with a 129-121 victory on Monday night. Zach LaVine scored 21 points and Lonzo Ball had 18 for Chicago, which had lost seven of eight. Ayo Dosunmu added 17 points.

Adding Isaiah Hartenstein was a stroke of genius from the Thunder front office. Granted, it was the most obvious move of the offseason, but NBA front offices don't always make the obvious moves, so a tip of the cap to OKC on that one. With Hartenstein in the lineup, this team is 23-2.