Short-Handed Rockets Stifle Cavaliers 117–100 Behind Durant’s 30
In Şengün’s absence, Houston leaned on defense with Kevin Durant carrying the scoring load.
Overview
- Kevin Durant scored 30 points on 11-for-17 shooting to pace Houston in a home win over Cleveland.
- Alperen Şengün sat with a calf issue as Steven Adams started, posting 9 points, 8 rebounds and a game-high +26.
- Reed Sheppard delivered 18 points off the bench with 8 assists, 5 steals and four made threes.
- Houston controlled the glass and muzzled a top three-point offense, holding the Cavs to 11-of-36 from deep.
- The victory underscored the Rockets’ role redistribution and defensive identity; one outlet reported they are 19–10 with Indiana up next on Monday.