Thunder drop 98-119 to Rockets, leaving SGA's 26 points in the dust

A Slow Start for Oklahoma City

The Oklahoma City Thunder struggled to find their rhythm on Saturday, October 31, falling 119-98 to the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. The visiting squad managed only 26 points in the opening period, a deficit that proved insurmountable as the game progressed. Despite a late surge, the Thunder could not close the gap against a well-executed Houston offense that dominated the board and the scoreboard.

Rockets Control the Tempo

Houston established an early lead, outscoring the Thunder 35-26 in the first quarter. The home team maintained its advantage throughout the second period, building a 55-44 lead at the half. Jabari Smith Jr. was the focal point of the Houston attack, finishing the game with 30 points and nine rebounds.

His efficiency allowed the Rockets to manage the clock effectively, limiting Oklahoma City’s opportunities to mount a comeback.

SGA Leads a Stagnant Effort

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander provided the Thunder’s best offensive output, scoring 26 points in the loss. However, his individual effort was not enough to offset the team’s collective struggles. The Thunder managed 25 points in the second quarter and 24 in the third, but they failed to generate the sustained runs necessary to challenge Houston’s lead.

Ajay Mitchell contributed five assists, but the visiting backcourt lacked the consistency needed to disrupt the Rockets’ flow.

Final Standings

The loss leaves the Thunder with a 4-2 record, while the Rockets improve to 6-1. Aday Mara led the Thunder in rebounding with nine boards, but the team’s defensive lapses in the paint allowed Houston to secure a decisive victory. The game concluded with the Rockets extending their lead to 21 points, marking a significant win for the home side in this matchup.

Sources

ESPN