Fred VanVleet had a standout performance, scoring 37 points, his highest of the season, while Jabari Smith Jr. contributed 23 points as the Houston Rockets secured a 118-106 win over the Orlando Magic on Tuesday.
This victory halted the Rockets’ five-game losing streak, providing a much-needed boost. Meanwhile, it dealt a significant blow to the Magic’s playoff aspirations, as they fell behind in the Eastern Conference standings.
VanVleet showcased his prowess by sinking six 3-pointers and adding eight rebounds and six assists to his impressive stats. Smith also made a significant impact with seven rebounds, five assists, and two blocks, contributing to Houston’s 52.3 percent shooting accuracy from the field.
On the Magic’s side, Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs managed to score 21 points each, attempting to keep their team in the game despite missing Franz Wagner due to an ankle injury. However, Markelle Fultz’s 18 points weren’t enough to bridge the gap as the Magic now find themselves two games behind the Milwaukee Bucks for the second seed in the conference with just three games remaining, including an upcoming match against the Bucks.
The Rockets took control early on, extending their lead to 79-60 in the third quarter, with Dillon Brooks contributing a key 3-pointer. Although the Magic fought back, reducing the deficit to 12 points, Smith’s jump shot increased Houston’s lead to 97-82 heading into the final quarter. The Magic attempted a comeback with a 9-0 run at the start of the fourth quarter, but VanVleet and Brooks ensured the Rockets maintained their advantage, ultimately securing a comfortable win.
VanVleet’s stellar performance continued throughout the game, as he spearheaded a 12-2 run in the first quarter, propelling the Rockets to a 36-25 lead. The team’s impressive shooting accuracy and teamwork, which led to 12 assists on 15 field goals, allowed them to maintain control in the second quarter despite a brief resurgence from the Magic.
Although Banchero struggled with his shooting in the first half, managing only 10 points and missing eight of his 12 shots, the Rockets capitalized on their opportunities, entering halftime with a 63-51 lead fueled by VanVleet and Smith’s combined 32 points.
