| Rockets Take Early Lead, Go Up 1-0 Authored by Jason Linnard - April 24, 2005 - 4:21 am
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Led by Tracy McGrady’s 34 points, the Rockets defeated the Mavs 98-86, giving them the early 1-0 lead. McGrady also added 5 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals.
Dallas was led by Dirk Nowitzki, who totaled 21 points, and Jason Terry and Josh Howard, each scoring 17. But the story of the night was McGrady, who outscored Nowitzki, Michael Finley, and Keith Van Horn combined.
This is a refreshing moment for McGrady, who’s had a bad history of being bounced from the first round in each of his 4 postseason appearances, his worst coming when his Orlando Magic gave up a 3-1 series lead to the Detroit Pistons 2 seasons ago.
“I feel this is my time,” said McGrady in a post-game interview. “I’m more confident than ever and I’ve got my team feeling the same way.”
After being tied at 14 near the end of the first quarter, Houston went on a 25-6 run over the next 7:20. McGrady accounted for 8 points and 2 assists during that stretch.
The Rockets kept a comfortable lead for the majority of the game, the only moments of worry when 3 Jerry Stackhouse free throws brought Dallas within 4. Houston outscored Dallas 23-15 in the remainder of the game. McGrady and Mike James combined for 18 of those 23.
The series continues Monday in Dallas at 9:30 EST. |
