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The Houston Rockets beat the Atlanta Hawks 109-102 Friday night, led by a career-high 45 points from James Harden. Harden's total included 18 points in the fourth quarter. Harden also added seven rebounds and two assists. Jeremy Lin contributed 21 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. Rockets center Omer Asik pulled down 19 rebounds, but scored zero points.
The Hawks were led by shooting guard Lou Williams, who had 22 points, five assists, four rebounds and three steals. It was not enough, as the Hawks simply couldn't find a way to contain Harden and Lin.
Harden was acquired by the Rockets on October 27th in a blockbuster trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder. On October 31st, Harden and the Rockets agreed to terms on a 5-year, $80 million contract extension.
The win moves the Rockets to 2-0 on the season. Houston will play their home opener November 3rd against the Portland Trail Blazers.