Guard Austin Rivers returned to the Houston Rockets’ lineup on Tuesday night for Game 2 of the team’s NBA playoff series against the Golden State Warriors and quickly made an impact – at least on social media.

Some unsteady footwork and less-than-deft dribbling by Rivers during Houston’s 115-109 loss had some fans poking fun at the 26-year-old son of Los Angeles Clippers coach Doc Rivers. But others admired his tenacity for trying to help Houston overcome a bad night for star James Harden -- who was affected by pokes to both eyes.

Rivers, who missed Game 1 with an illness, is seen falling down during one play, losing his balance – and the ball -- during a drive to the basket and falling out of bounds after appearing to get poked with a finger during the game in Oakland, Calif.

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Some fans were relentless in their responses.

Others were more appreciative of Rivers' effort.

Rivers played 24 minutes and contributed 14 points from the bench on 5-for-8 shooting. He was 4-for-6 from the 3-point line, and had two assists, but racked up three turnovers and four fouls.

It was a tough night all around for Houston. Harden got hit in both eyes but still managed to score 29 points and collect seven rebounds.

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“I could barely see,” Harden told reporters after the game.

Golden State’s Steph Curry had a rough time as well, dislocating his left middle finger in the first quarter, but he returned to action after having the finger taped.

Game 3 will be Saturday in Houston.