Rockets Edge Thunder
Tari Eason achieved a season-high of 26 points, leading the Houston Rockets to a 112-106 victory against the shorthanded Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday.
Outstanding Performances
Alperen Sengun contributed significantly with 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists, marking his second triple-double of the season and the tenth of his career. Jabari Smith Jr. also made an impact with 22 points and 10 rebounds, while Kevin Durant added 20 points for the Rockets.
Thunder’s Struggles
Cason Wallace was the standout for Oklahoma City with 23 points, while Isaiah Joe contributed 21 points. The team faced challenges as they played without their star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is recovering from an abdominal strain and will be absent until after the All-Star break. Additionally, Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell were absent from the lineup.
New Addition to the Thunder
Jared McCain made his Thunder debut after a trade from Philadelphia, receiving cheers from fans as he entered late in the first quarter. He finished with five points in 14 minutes of play.
Fan Reactions
Oklahoma City fans expressed their displeasure towards Kevin Durant, booing him during the pregame introductions and cheering when he missed two free throws in the second quarter. Despite the tension, McCain scored his first basket with about nine minutes left in the second quarter, helping the Thunder temporarily gain a lead before heading into halftime at 52-46.
Other NBA Highlights
Elsewhere, Michael Porter Jr. scored 23 points to lead Brooklyn to a victory over Washington, while Stephon Castle recorded a career-high 40 points in San Antonio’s win against Dallas. Orlando, powered by Paolo Banchero’s 23 points, overcame a 17-point deficit to defeat Utah, and Charlotte’s Miles Bridges scored 26 points in a win against Atlanta.
