Houston RocketsOpen full analysis
Sacramento KingsOpen full analysis
The Sacramento Kings defeated the Houston Rockets 111–98 on January 11 at Golden 1 Center, controlling the matchup with a dominant fourth quarter that outscored Houston 33–22. DeRozan led Sacramento with 22 points while LaVine added 18, as the Kings shot 48.4 percent from the field and made 8 three-pointers to stay balanced offensively. Houston's Thompson paced the Rockets with 31 points and Durant contributed 23, but the visitors managed only a 42.9 field-goal percentage and committed 11 turnovers, feeding Sacramento's defensive intensity. The Kings' defense held Houston to a 110.4 offensive rating while Sacramento's own 122.2 offensive rating proved decisive, with the final margin exceeding the under on the 223.5 Vegas total. Sacramento's 45 rebounds and 25 assists provided the offensive foundation, while Houston's fourth-quarter collapse—just 22 points on 28 attempts—sealed the outcome. The Kings' balanced scoring depth and late-game execution underscored their ability to grind out wins against Western Conference competition.
