Alperen Sengun posted 26 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds as the Houston Rockets defeated the Boston Celtics 109-93 on Monday night, securing their best start since the 2014-15 season.
With the win, the Rockets improved to 7-1 and moved into first place in the Western Conference after the previously undefeated Memphis Grizzlies lost to New Orleans in overtime. The victory also brought an end to Boston’s five-game winning streak, handing the Celtics their first loss since their season-opening defeat at Detroit.
Houston controlled the game from the outset and never trailed. The Rockets outscored the Celtics 18-2 on the fast break and held a 50-34 advantage in points in the paint. Jabari Smith Jr. and Amen Thompson each scored 14 points for Houston, while Tari Eason added 13, and Kevin Durant chipped in 12 points on 5-of-6 shooting.
Boston played without Paul George, who was sidelined to rest after scoring 17 points in 33 minutes during a 108-97 win at Orlando on Sunday. Clint Capela missed the game for Houston due to a right ankle sprain. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 19 points, shooting 5 of 16 from the field, including 1 of 7 from 3-point range. Neemias Queta contributed 16 points, and reserve Luka Garza made four 3-pointers to finish with 14 points.
The Celtics struggled to find offensive rhythm against a defense anchored by former teammate Marcus Smart, who finished with eight points, four rebounds, and four assists. The score was tied at 29 at the end of the first quarter before Houston built a 57-50 lead by halftime.
Both teams return to the court on Wednesday night, with the Celtics hosting Milwaukee and the Rockets hosting Minnesota.
