Phoenix SunsOpen full analysis
Houston RocketsOpen full analysis
The Houston Rockets defeated the Phoenix Suns 117–98 on December 5 at Toyota Center, with A. Thompson and K. Durant combining for 59 points to lead the hosts. Houston shot 59.2 percent from the field while making 10 three-pointers, establishing early control through a dominant second quarter that yielded 44 points and effectively decided the matchup. Phoenix, led by D. Brooks's 23 points and J. Bouyea's 18, struggled offensively at 39 percent shooting and managed just five three-pointers, with a particularly anemic third quarter producing only 14 points. The Rockets' defensive rating of 92.1 held the Suns well below the Vegas total of 219.5, while Houston's 117.8 offensive rating and 25 assists demonstrated balanced ball movement. Phoenix's 12 steals proved insufficient to overcome a 40-rebound disadvantage and their 13 turnovers against Houston's 21. The Suns' third-quarter collapse and inability to generate consistent perimeter offense underscored a concerning trend as they look to stabilize their offensive consistency.
