Houston Rockets Triumph Over Indiana Pacers
In a thrilling matchup on Monday, the Houston Rockets managed to secure a 118-114 victory over the Indiana Pacers, thanks to a stellar performance by Alperen Sengun, who equaled his season-best with 39 points. Jabari Smith Jr. also contributed with 19 points, playing a crucial role as the Rockets faced significant challenges due to injuries.
Injury Challenges
Notably, their All-Star forward Kevin Durant was sidelined after spraining his left ankle, an injury sustained when he accidentally stepped on a fan’s foot. Houston was already at a disadvantage without their center Steven Adams, who is anticipated to miss the remainder of the season due to ankle surgery.
This increased the pressure on Sengun, who not only scored effectively but also made an impressive 13 of 25 field goals and converted 13 of 18 free throws, including 8 out of 12 in the pivotal fourth quarter.
Game Highlights
The Pacers, led by All-Star Pascal Siakam’s 27 points and Bennedict Mathurin‘s 25, initially seemed in control, capitalizing on the Rockets’ weakened roster. They led for most of the first half before Houston launched a late 17-4 run to shift momentum and finish the half with a 63-56 lead after a re-evaluation ruled Siakam’s potential buzzer-beater 3-pointer as invalid.
As the second half began, the Rockets extended their lead to 75-63 through a quick 12-5 run. However, Indiana responded fiercely, scoring nine consecutive points to regain the lead at 81-79, spurred by a swift assist from Jarace Walker to Siakam. The game then remained tightly contested, hovering around a one to two possession difference until Sengun’s free throws propelled Houston on a decisive 12-2 run, giving them a comfortable 109-101 edge with just under five minutes left.
Upcoming Matches
Next up, the Rockets are set to return home to face the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night, while the Pacers will take on the Utah Jazz in Indianapolis on Tuesday.
