HOUSTON — The Rockets (8-6) have won eight consecutive home games — two in impressive fashion over the defending NBA champions — after Friday’s 105-86 win (box score) over the Nuggets (10-6). Denver also lost at Toyota Center on Nov. 12.
Beyond the 2023-24 regular-season standings, Friday’s matchup counts toward the NBA’s 2023-24 in-season tournament, as well. The Nuggets (2-2) and Rockets (2-1) are both competing in Western Conference Group B, and Houston will have an opportunity to win the group outright and advance to the eight-team quarterfinal stage if they can secure a victory at Dallas (1-2) on Tuesday night.
Perennial All-Star and MVP candidate Nikola Jokic had with 38 points, 19 rebounds, and 8 assists, but Houston’s defense collectively limited Denver to just 34% shooting and 23.3% on 3-pointers.
Jalen Green led a balanced effort for the Rockets with 25 points and 3 steals, shooting 10-of-18 from the field (55.6%) and 3-of-8 on 3-pointers (37.5%). Other standout players included:
- Alperen Sengun: 21 points, 14 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals; 8-of-19 shooting (42.1%), 5-of-6 on free throws (83.3%)
- Fred VanVleet: 17 points, 11 assists, 6 rebounds, 2 blocks; 6-of-12 shooting (50%), 3-of-5 on 3-pointers (60%)
- Jabari Smith Jr.: 16 points, 15 rebounds; 6-of-9 shooting (66.7%), 2-of-3 on 3-pointers (66.7%)
Here’s our look at highlights and postgame interviews following Friday’s impressive game versus the Nuggets, along with reaction by media members and fans. Next up for Houston is Tuesday’s road contest at Dallas (10-5), with tipoff set for 7:30 p.m. Central.