HOUSTON — The Houston Rockets used a commanding first quarter to build a double-digit lead, taking a 47-37 advantage over the New York Knicks into halftime at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night.
The Rockets controlled the opening period utterly, racing out to a 37-21 lead behind sharp offensive execution and disruptive defense. Veterans Kevin Durant and Tari Eason set the pace, each scoring 13 points in the half. Durant’s efficient scoring and Eason’s energetic play fueled a 16-point outburst that left the Knicks scrambling. Amen Thompson added 6 points and 3 assists, facilitating the early surge.
New York’s offense sputtered initially, with star guard Jalen Brunson limited to 5 points on quiet shooting. The second quarter, however, featured a decisive momentum shift. The Knicks seized control of the period, elevating their defensive intensity to hold Houston to just 10 points. Led by reserve guard Jose Alvarado’s 8 points and Jordan Clarkson’s 6, the Knicks mounted a 16-10 quarter to cut the deficit to ten by the break. The rally provided a crucial spark for the home crowd after a dismal start.
Despite the Knicks’ second-quarter response, the Rockets’ early dominance established a cushion they maintained. Houston’s defense forced difficult shots early, while New York’s bench unit provided the necessary lift to stay within striking distance.
As both teams regroup, the second-half focus will be on whether the Knicks can sustain their defensive pressure and continue chipping away at the lead, or if the Rockets’ star power, led by Durant, will reassert itself to close out a critical road victory.
