Phoenix Suns stumble as Houston Rockets pull off stunning upset
The Phoenix Suns experienced a disheartening setback on Monday night, falling to the Houston Rockets 114-92 at the Mortgage Matchup Center, marking the end of their three-game winning streak. With this loss, the Suns’ record now stands at 11-7, while the Rockets improved to 11-4, showcasing a commanding performance.
Key Absences Impact the Game
Notably absent from the Suns’ lineup was Kevin Durant, who did not return to Phoenix after his summer trade to the Rockets due to personal reasons. Meanwhile, Jalen Green sat out with a right hamstring strain, adding to the Suns’ challenges as they faced off against a familiar opponent. Dillon Brooks, another former Rocket now with the Suns, was particularly driven, leading his team with 29 points, three rebounds, and two steals. However, the absence of three key starters left Phoenix struggling for offensive rhythm, resulting in their lowest scoring output of the season.
In addition to Durant and Green, the Suns were missing Grayson Allen (right quad contusion), Mark Williams (right knee injury management), and Ryan Dunn (right wrist sprain). The Rockets also faced injury challenges, with Tari Eason (right oblique strain), Dorian Finney-Smith (left ankle surgery), Jae’Sean Tate (personal), and Fred VanVleet (right knee ACL repair) all sidelined.
First Quarter: A Competitive Start
The game kicked off with Brooks igniting the Suns’ defense, forcing a turnover against Amen Thompson on the very first possession. The opening quarter saw a competitive exchange, despite the Suns struggling from beyond the arc, finishing 4-for-16 on three-point attempts. Brooks, though not finding his shooting groove initially, was pivotal in keeping the momentum alive. The Rockets pulled ahead late in the quarter, closing it with consecutive three-pointers to take a 30-23 lead into the second frame. Devin Booker led the Suns with nine points, while Houston’s Aaron Holiday matched that output off the bench.
Second Quarter: Rockets Extend Their Lead
Rasheer Fleming made his return to the court, marking his second stint of the season after recovering from an ankle sprain. However, the Suns’ bench could not replicate their recent success during Booker’s absence. Houston quickly escalated its lead into double digits early in the quarter. Brooks attempted to rally the Suns back with a personal 7-0 run, drawing attention with some spirited exchanges with the Rockets bench. But Houston countered decisively with a 12-2 run, widening the gap to 52-39 with just over three minutes left in the half. The Rockets led 59-50 at halftime, capitalizing on Phoenix’s 11 turnovers, which resulted in 18 points for Houston. Both Brooks and Collin Gillespie contributed 13 points each for the Suns by the end of the half.
Third Quarter: Suns Seek a Comeback
The Rockets continued their offensive assault at the start of the third quarter, pushing their lead to 15. Brooks emerged as the offensive spark for the Suns, scoring nine of their first 16 points in the period. However, with 4:13 remaining, Brooks picked up his fifth foul, forcing him to the sidelines as Houston led 76-66. Despite this setback, the Suns managed a brief resurgence, cutting the deficit to 78-73 before sloppy play plagued them again, with Houston heading into the fourth quarter up 84-75, buoyed by Thompson’s 17 points and Sengun’s 16.
Fourth Quarter: Rockets Dominate
Gillespie opened the final quarter with a three-pointer, momentarily igniting hope for the Suns. However, the Rockets quickly responded with an 8-0 run, extending their lead to 92-78. From that point on, the Suns struggled to mount any significant challenge, and Houston maintained control, leading by as many as 23 points in the final moments. With 3:08 left in the game, the Suns opted to pull their starters, conceding to the reality of a tough night on the court.
What Lies Ahead for the Suns
Looking forward, the Suns will head out on the road to face the Sacramento Kings (4-13) on Wednesday, hoping to rebound from this disappointing loss and regain their offensive momentum.
