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abr 01 2026HOUSTON — The Houston Rockets dominated the New York Knicks 111-94 in an NBA matchup that was effectively decided in the first quarter thanks to Kevin Durant's offensive leadership. Durant scored 27 points as Houston secured its third consecutive win, while the Knicks suffered their third straight loss after winning seven games previously.
The Houston Rockets set the pace from the opening tip. The team directed from Houston came out with great offensive intensity and quickly punished the New York Knicks with a devastating run in the first quarter. The Rockets scored 37 points in the first twelve minutes, powered by the accuracy of Kevin Durant and Tari Eason, who combined for 23 points and four three-pointers in that explosive start.
That opening allowed Houston to quickly build a double-digit lead that they would not relinquish for the rest of the night in this NBA matchday. The Rockets controlled the pace of the game and progressively expanded their advantage thanks to a balanced offense in which all starters contributed at least 13 points.
Beyond Kevin Durant's 27 points, the Houston Rockets got 17 points and eight rebounds from Tari Eason, who entered the starting lineup. Amen Thompson also scored 17 points, while Jabari Smith Jr. added 15. Turkish center Alperen Sengun contributed 13 points and 10 assists, leading the team's offensive flow. Off the bench, Reed Sheppard provided 20 points and five rebounds, extending the lead at different moments in the game.
The New York Knicks attempted to mount a comeback after halftime. The New York team managed to cut the deficit to 12 points following a three-pointer by Jalen Brunson with about three minutes remaining in the third quarter. However, that comeback was brief. Two consecutive turnovers by the Knicks allowed the Houston Rockets to rattle off seven straight points, pushing their lead to 87-68 with a minute and a half left in the third period.
With the game well in hand, the Houston Rockets entered the fourth quarter with a lead near 20 points, a margin they maintained without major issues. With just over two minutes remaining and Houston leading by 19, both teams brought in their reserves, sealing the home victory.
For the New York Knicks, Karl-Anthony Towns stood out with 22 points and eight rebounds, though his performance was not enough to prevent another loss in this NBA matchday.
The victory solidifies the Houston Rockets' strong form, as they have now won three consecutive games after losing their previous two matchups, while the New York Knicks are experiencing their first recent rough patch with three straight losses, all by double digits.
