Rockets Soar High, Defeat Knicks 109-97 Despite Fourth-Quarter Scare

Sengun Dominates, Rockets Secure Win

Alperen Sengun’s exceptional display of 25 points and 14 rebounds played a pivotal role in the Houston Rockets‘ 109-97 triumph over the New York Knicks. Despite an early lead of 15 points, the Rockets saw their advantage dwindle as the Knicks closed the gap to a single point late in the final quarter. However, Sengun’s tenacity, under the watchful eye of Karl-Anthony Towns, saw him score crucial 10 points in the final period, cementing the Rockets’ victory.

Supporting Acts Shine for Rockets

Fred VanVleet contributed a respectable 19 points for the Rockets, with Jalen Green adding 15 to the tally. Jalen Brunson spearheaded the Knicks’ effort with an impressive 29 points, while OG Anunoby chipped in with 21. Despite Towns’ solid performance, scoring 17 points alongside a season-high 19 rebounds, it wasn’t sufficient to steer the Knicks to victory.

Takeaways from the Game

Knicks’ Inside Game Lacking

The Knicks will need to improve their scoring in the paint, a domain where they were outmatched 62-38, resulting in the end of their two-game winning streak.

Rockets’ Balanced Scoring

The Rockets excelled in engaging multiple players in their offensive game, with four starters scoring in double figures. Amen Thompson also contributed 12 points from the bench. However, the team will need to address their game consistency, having nearly given up a sizeable lead before securing the win.

Game-Changing Moment

In the final moments of the game, with the Rockets leading by three points, a decisive two-handed dunk by Thompson, followed by a three-pointer from Green, extended the lead to 105-97, effectively sealing the game for the Rockets.

Key Statistic

Despite shooting a subpar 8 of 33 from beyond the arc, the Rockets still managed to claim victory. Green had a shaky start, missing his first six attempts, and VanVleet, along with Jabari Smith Jr., each made just one successful attempt from five.

What’s Next?

The Knicks will look to bounce back when they face the Hawks on Wednesday night, while the Rockets will host the Spurs on the same night.