Thompson's Season-High 27 Points Lead Rockets to Fourth Straight Win
HOUSTON (AP) — Amen Thompson scored a season-high 27 points, while Alperen Sengun contributed 26 points and 11 rebounds, helping the Houston Rockets secure a 110-102 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night.
The Rockets improved to four consecutive wins after starting the season 0-2.
Key Moments in the Final Minutes
- The Rockets held a slim lead when Sengun drove to the basket, spun around a defender, and sank a crucial shot to push the score to 105-102, with about 90 seconds left.
- Washington missed a 3-pointer, and Josh Okogie added two free throws, extending Houston's lead to 107-102 with one minute remaining.
- D’Angelo Russell missed a 3-pointer, and Thompson made one of two free throws, increasing the lead to 108-102 with 27 seconds left.
- Thompson blocked a 3-point attempt by No. 1 draft pick Cooper Flagg, and Tari Eason sealed the win with a dunk in the final moments.
Mavericks' Performance without Anthony Davis
Washington led Dallas with season highs of 29 points and 12 rebounds, despite Anthony Davis sitting out due to a strained calf. Max Christie scored 17 points, and Cooper Flagg added 12 points and five rebounds as the Mavericks fell to a 2-5 record.
Durant's Struggles and Highlights
Kevin Durant scored 21 points, six rebounds, and five assists but struggled with his shooting, hitting just 6 of 18 attempts from the field. Durant finally made his first 3-pointer after six misses and followed it with another 3, helping Dallas close the gap to 99-94 with five minutes remaining.
Daniel Gafford responded with a layup on the other end, maintaining Houston's lead.
“The Rockets led by one when Sengun drove into the lane and spun around a defender before sinking a shot to make it 105-102 with about 90 seconds left.”
“Thompson then blocked a 3-point attempt by No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg and Tari Eason sealed the win with a dunk.”
Author’s summary: Amen Thompson's 27 points and late-game defense led the Rockets to a critical fourth straight win over the Mavericks, who struggled without Anthony Davis.