For the undermanned Houston Rockets, who are currently missing four expected rotation players due to COVID-19 issues, winning at Denver was always going to be a tall order. However, All-Star guard James Harden and new center Christian Wood showed flashes of what could be a formidable pairing down the line, once the depth returns.

In Monday’s 124-111 loss (box score), perennial All-Star guard James Harden led the way with 34 points and eight assists in just 31 minutes, making 10-of-16 shots (62.5%) from the field. Meanwhile, Wood followed up 31 points and 13 rebounds in Saturday’s debut at Portland with 23 points (45% FG) and two blocks against the Nuggets.

For a second straight game to open the 2020-21 regular season, the Rockets had only nine active players — just one above the NBA’s minimum requirement of eight to play a game. Facing a Denver squad led by Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic and coming off a Western Conference Finals berth, it was a tough task for Houston — especially with a short rotation and on a second road game in three nights, and at high altitude.

The good news for the Rockets (0-2), from a wins and losses perspective, is that three of the four key absences (John Wall, Eric Gordon, and DeMarcus Cousins) are expected back in time for Houston’s next game on Thursday. Ben McLemore, who reportedly tested positive for the coronavirus, could take a few extra days. Reinforcements are on the way.

Until then, though, Houston fans can take some consolation in the big numbers from their top duo. See below for a compilation of highlights by Harden and Wood from Monday’s game.