Sengun powers Rockets past Celtics as Houston takes West lead
Alperen Sengun scored 26 points and recorded 10 assists as Houston beat Boston 109-93 in Houston on November 2, moving the Rockets to first place in the Western Conference.
Houston never trailed at Toyota Center, beating Boston 109-93 on November 2 and improving to 7-1, its best start since the 2014-15 season. The Rockets climbed to the top of the Western Conference standings when Memphis, previously 6-1, lost to New Orleans in overtime.
Alperen Sengun led Houston with 26 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds, making 12 of 15 shots. The Rockets shot 54.4% overall and scored 50 points in the paint. Jabari Smith Jr. and Amen Thompson had 14 points apiece; Tari Eason added 13, while Kevin Durant scored 12 on five-of-six shooting.
Houston’s fast-break advantage was 18-2, and it also outscored Boston 50-34 in the paint. The teams were tied 29-29 after the first quarter, but Houston led 57-50 at halftime and pulled away late. Former Celtic Marcus Smart finished with eight points, four boards and four assists for the Rockets. Reed Sheppard scored eight of his points in the fourth quarter.
Jayson Tatum led Boston with 19 points, shooting five of 16 from the field and one of seven from three-point range. Neemias Queta scored 16, and reserve Luka Garza added 14. The loss ended Boston’s five-game winning streak.
Houston hosts Minnesota on Wednesday. Boston, which rested Paul George, hosts Milwaukee that night. Clint Capela missed the game for Houston with a right ankle sprain.