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Streaking Rockets run into James, Gibson

Feb 19, 2008 - 2:57 PM Houston (32-20) at Cleveland (29-23) 7:00 pm EST

CLEVELAND (Ticker) - The Houston Rockets have not lost a game this month but LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers will have plenty to say about that on Tuesday when the teams meet in their first game since the All-Star break.

Houston is 7-0 in February and has won eight straight overall. The Rockets have not lost since an 89-87 setback to Utah on January 27.

Despite their recent hot streak, the Rockets have found it hard to make much headway in the loaded Western Conference. Houston is currently tied for seventh in the conference standings with Denver and Golden State.

Houston is also only 4 1/2 games behind New Orleans and Phoenix, the West's current pace setters.

James won the MVP Award at the All-Star game on Sunday for the second time and appears primed to put the Cavaliers on his back and make a strong push toward the playoffs.

James is leading the league in scoring (30.3 points per game) and is averaging 7.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists. He is well on his way to adding a league MVP trophy to his collection, especially if the weather holds up.

Obviously looking to get the second half off to a fast start, James is facing the perfect team. He is averaging 32 points, 9.5 rebounds and 7.0 assists in his last two meetings with Houston.