DeMar DeRozan Rips the Rockets for a Career-High 42 Points (VIDEO)

Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan came out on top in his battle with James Harden Monday night, erupting for a career-high 42 points to go along with 11 rebounds.

The Raptors took down the visiting Houston Rockets 99-96.

DeRozan relished the matchup with his childhood buddy Harden.

Per the Toronto Sun:

“I thought the entire team was ready and more focused,’’ said Raptors head coach Dwane Casey. “We had a good defensive practice (Sunday). Again, our whole theme from here on out, not only this game (versus Houston) but Wednesday night (in Minneapolis) and the rest of the way is going to be defence. We’re going to score enough points, we’re going to find ways to score, so we’re going to have a defensive focus.”

 

“I just want to go out there and win,’’ said DeRozan. “The crowd was into it and the last time we played these guys they got us pretty good. We are really just trying to go out there and be ourselves and understand that we can use these next few games to get ready for the playoffs.”

 

The matchup with Harden was something worth relishing. […] “It’s definitely cool because we have been playing against each other since we were kids,’’ added DeRozan. “He’s one of my close friends in the league to this day. I’m close with his family and he’s close with my family, so it’s always cool knowing we can cherish this 20 years, 30 years from now.”