HOUSTON — DeMar DeRozan scored 21 points as the Sacramento Kings secured their third consecutive win by defeating the Houston Rockets 113-103 on Saturday night, despite an early setback when Domantas Sabonis was injured.
Zach LaVine contributed with 20 points for Sacramento, and the team managed a 13-3 scoring spree that increased their lead to 97-85 with 10 minutes left to play. During this crucial stretch, Keon Ellis and LaVine both scored 3-pointers, and DeRozan added the last five points.
Alperen Sengun proved to be a standout for the Rockets, delivering 30 points along with 10 rebounds, while Jalen Green pitched in with 24 points. The loss halted Houston’s two-game winning streak.
Unfortunately for Sacramento, Sabonis had to exit approximately a minute into the game due to a hamstring injury and did not return. He appeared to injure himself while sprinting down the court, clutching his left hamstring in pain. Prior to the injury, Sabonis had been averaging 19.9 points and 14.4 rebounds.
In light of Sabonis’s absence, the Kings showcased a well-rounded offensive effort, with six players reaching double-digit scores.
On the Rockets’ side, Fred VanVleet struggled to find his rhythm following an 11-game hiatus due to a strained right ankle. He managed only 3 points in 35 minutes, hitting just 1 of 8 attempts. VanVleet’s quick recovery is essential to stabilize an offense that has had its share of difficulties in his absence.
A defining moment of the game was LaVine’s 3-pointer towards the end of the third quarter that initiated the decisive run, allowing the Kings to distance themselves in scoring.
A notable statistic from the game was Sacramento’s dominance in the paint, outscoring Houston 58-44.
Looking ahead, the Rockets are scheduled to play against Oklahoma City on Monday night. Meanwhile, the Kings will face off against Dallas on the same evening.
