For the second time in less than two weeks, the Houston Rockets were blown out in Oklahoma City by a Thunder team that was viewed as a rebuilding rival entering the 2022-23 season.
This time, the game’s result — a 133-96 win (box score) for the host Thunder — wasn’t even the low point for the Rockets.
On top of Houston (13-45) maintaining its spot in the NBA’s cellar with a seventh straight loss, the Rockets lost their leading scorer when prized prospect Jalen Green left in the second quarter with a left groin strain. The injury will likely take Green, 21, out of Saturday’s Rising Stars challenge at All-Star weekend, and his status once the Rockets resume action next week is clearly in question.
Green had 14 points and 2 assists in 16 minutes prior to the injury. In postgame comments, Rockets head coach Stephen Silas said he had no further update beyond the team’s immediate disclosure, adding that Green would likely undergo an MRI on Thursday.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led Oklahoma City (28-29) with 29 points (50% FG) and 6 assists in only 29 minutes, thanks to the blowout.
Rookie forward Jabari Smith Jr. led the Rockets with 15 points, 9 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks in 29 minutes on 4-of-8 shooting (50%), including a matching 2-of-4 clip from 3-point range.
Scroll on for highlights, analysis, and postgame interview reaction. Next up for Houston, after a week-plus break surrounding the NBA’s 2023 All-Star weekend, is next Friday’s game at Golden State.