Chicago BullsOpen full analysis
Houston RocketsOpen full analysis
The Houston Rockets defeated the Chicago Bulls 119–113 on January 13 at Toyota Center in a defensive battle that fell short of the 224.5-point Vegas total. Kevin Durant led Houston with 28 points while Alperen Sengun added 23, as the Rockets shot 51.1 percent from the field and made 7 three-pointers to control the pace. Chicago's Terrence Jones paced the Bulls with 34 points and Matas Buzelis contributed 19, but the visiting team's 43.6 field-goal percentage and 12 three-pointers proved insufficient. Houston's third quarter proved decisive, outscoring Chicago 33–28 to build separation, while the Rockets' defensive rating of 116.4 held the Bulls' offensive rating to 116.4. The Bulls' second-quarter explosion of 36 points couldn't sustain momentum, and despite matching Houston's 24 assists, Chicago committed fewer turnovers (7 to 9) without gaining ground. Houston's superior efficiency and bench depth in the final frame sealed the outcome. The Rockets remain competitive in the Western Conference, while Chicago must address inconsistent shooting and quarter-to-quarter volatility.
