Rockets beat Celtics in home opener

Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) and guard Jason Terry (31) reacts after Harden makes a basket during the third quarter against the Boston Celtics at Toyota Center in Houston, Nov 1, 2014. The Rockets defeated the Celtics 104-90. [Photo/Agencies, Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports]

HOUSTON - The Houston Rockets have started 3-0 for the third consecutive season after beating the Boston Celtics 104-90 in their home opener Saturday night at Toyota Center.

The Rockets dominated the game from the beginning to the end. They started the first quarter aggressively, once leading as much as 19 points. And that advantage remained till halftime 57-38. Boston tried to close the deficit in the second half but only managed to narrow it to no less than 11.

James Harden led the Rockets with 26 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and four steals. Terrence Jones chipped in 25 points and 10 rebounds, and Dwight Howard added 14 points and eight rebounds.

Jeff Green had 17 points, and Jared Sullinger added 14 points and nine rebounds for the Celtics.

The Rockets will play the 76ers Monday night in Philadelphia.