Rockets' red glare sparks great launch

Play time is over, Houston. The red-hot Rockets are off to their best start since 1996, thanks in part to a lightweight schedule.

Up next, games against NBA finalists Miami and San Antonio that will serve as an early-season proving ground for a team with designs on playing deep into the postseason.

James Harden had 35 points and nine rebounds and Dwight Howard added 11 points and 14 rebounds to lead the Rockets past the Philadelphia 76ers 104-93 on Monday night.