Overview
- Houston closed on a decisive fourth-quarter run of 23–4 to overturn an eight-point deficit, with Amen Thompson scoring 26 on 11-of-12 shooting and Alperen Sengun adding 28.
- Kevin Durant finished with 20 points as the Rockets shot 54% overall, overcoming 22 turnovers to improve to 39–23 and stay near the top of the West.
- Jerami Grant led Portland with 21 points, Jrue Holiday had 20 points and 10 assists, and Donovan Clingan posted 18 points and 13 rebounds after the Blazers’ hot start from deep cooled.
- Deni Avdija missed a sixth consecutive game due to low-back injury management after being listed doubtful pregame; Portland’s report also included Damian Lillard out for the season and Shaedon Sharpe sidelined.
- Houston played the second night of a back-to-back after an overtime loss and sat Jabari Smith Jr., while Portland fell to 30–34 and returns home Sunday to face the Pacers as the Rockets visit the Spurs.