Houston Rockets Secure Third Straight Win Behind Jabari Smith Jr. and Strong Defense

Jabari Smith Jr.'s 20-point performance and Houston's rebounding dominance fueled a 97-84 victory over the Orlando Magic despite key injuries.

Jabari Smith Jr. led the Rockets with 20 points, including five 3-pointers, marking his fifth 20-point game of the season.
Houston dominated the boards, outrebounding Orlando 63-42, with Steven Adams contributing 17 rebounds, 11 of which were offensive.
Jalen Green stepped up as a playmaker in the absence of injured starters Amen Thompson and Fred VanVleet, recording eight assists and 15 points.
The Rockets' defense held the Magic to just 32.6% shooting and 25% from beyond the arc, limiting Orlando to 84 points, their third-lowest total this season.
Houston extended its winning streak to three games and will next face the Phoenix Suns, who are struggling with a 6-14 record over their last 20 games.