Perception-wise this high total makes sense. The Rockets were the second-highest scoring team in the NBA last season while the Lakers ranked second-from-the-bottom in defense.

But perception and reality are two different things when it comes to this matchup and this high total.

The Rockets have added some new veterans. They should help the Rockets improve their defense. Houston averaged just 91.5 points during its last four preseason games while holding foes to an average 86 points a game during this span.

The Lakers averaged 94.7 points in regulation during their last four preseason games.

The point guard matchup is Patrick Beverly against Jeremy Lin, which should be intense. Both were once teammates on the Rockets. Houston chose to go with Beverly, who is a hard-nose defender. The Rockets are well acquainted with Lin's game. Lin is going to play major minutes with Steve Nash out for the season and backup Ronnie Price not 100 percent and possibly out.

Dwight Howard isn't 100 percent either due to a cut in his arm. He's going to play, but he'll be rusty. This rust will show on offense and on his already horrendous free throw shooting not defense. Both teams have to deal with the rust of having been idle for three days.