Houston's Harden looks to bounce back in Game 2 after struggles in opener against Portland

Houston Rockets' Patrick Beverley (2) goes up for a a shot as Portland Trail Blazers' Thomas Robinson (41) and Damian Lillard, left, defend during the third quarter in Game 1 of an opening-round NBA basketball playoff series Sunday, April 20, 2014, in Houston. The Trail Blazers won 122-120 in overtime. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) (The Associated Press)

Houston Rockets' Dwight Howard (12) shoots a free throw against the Portland Trail Blazers during overtime in Game 1 of an opening-round NBA basketball playoff series Sunday, April 20, 2014, in Houston. The Trail Blazers won 122-120 in overtime. Howard was 9-for-17 in free throws. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) (The Associated Press)

HOUSTON – James Harden missed 20 shots, including two in the final seconds of Houston's Game 1 loss to Portland in overtime.

Now the key word for the Houston star entering Game 2 on Wednesday night is better; he must play better, and the Rockets must be better when it comes to their ball movement.

He says: "I wasn't really driving and attacking and being aggressive like I needed to be. I think when I get into the attack mode everything else opens up."

The Trail Blazers know they aren't going to keep Harden from shooting. He's averaging 16.5 attempts a game this season. But their plan is to make every shot he takes as difficult as possible.