Rockets' horrifying new free-throw distraction

The Houston Rockets came up with another innovative way to distract opponents at the free-throw line. The Houston Rockets came up with another innovative way to distract opponents at the free-throw line. Photo: Vine Photo: Vine Image 1 of / 54 Caption Close Rockets' horrifying new free-throw distraction 1 / 54 Back to Gallery

The Houston Rockets do a good job with the game atmosphere inside the arena. They've done especially well this season with having people dress up in character behind the baseline to distract opposing free-throw shooters.

Earlier this month, they had women dress in sexy outfits to distract the New Orleans Pelicans.

On Wednesday, they went from sexy to just plain weird ... and hilarious.

Yes, that appears to be a real-life Oscar the Grouch. Or perhaps the Incredible Hulk has given up on his workout regimen and has fallen on some hard times.

Of course, no matter how much fun the green dude in the trash can is, the Rockets need more help on the court. Houston lost another game in the final possession, this time falling to the Jazz 89-87. The loss dropped the Rockets to ninth place in the Western Conference.