The Rockets continued on their winning streak with a 140-116 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night.
Since starting the season 0-2, the Rockets have won eight of their last nine games. They were led Friday by Kevin Durant's 30 points, 16 of which he scored in the first quarter. Durant was 12-of-19, including 3-of-6 from 3-point range.
All Houston starters scored in double figures. Alperen Sengun nearly had a triple-double with 25 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. He was an efficient 9-of-13 from the field.
Jabari Smith Jr. scored 22 points on 9-of-16 shooting, including 4-of-9 from 3.
Amen Thompson had 19 points and Josh Okogie scored 11. Reed Sheppard added 13 points off the bench and Aaron Holiday chipped in 10.
Deni Avdija led the way for Portland with 22 points. Shaedon Sharpe added 19 points. Toumani Camara scored 16 and Jrue Holiday and Jerami Grant added 13 apiece.
The Rockets host the Orlando Magic on Sunday. Houston is now 1-1 in Group Play.