Jalen Green Ties Career-High in Rockets Blowout Victory Over Wizards
The Houston Rockets won their sixth consecutive game in a 137-114 victory over the Washington Wizards Tuesday night. Inside the Capital One Arena, the Rockets were able to stay within striking distance of the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors for the final Play-In spot in the Western Conference.
Jalen Green continued his impressive play a day after receiving the first Player of the Week honor of his career. He led the team in scoring with a season-high 42 points on 12 of 21 shooting from the field, 7 of 13 from behind the arc, and 10 rebounds. Green scored 19 points during the first quarter, which led to the Rockets holding a 39-36 lead entering the second period.
Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) reacts after making a three-point basket during the first half against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena.
Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
The third-year two-guard was one of five players who scored in double-figures. Amen Thompson scored a career-best 25 points and 10 rebounds in the win, while Jabari Smith Jr. finished with 18 points and 14 rebounds. Smith's performance against the Wizards marked his 16th double-double, matching his career-high from the 2022-23 season.
Jock Landale provided the Rockets a major boost off the bench with 10 points and seven blocks in the win.
Houston held a 60-57 lead at the half. But due to the team's mediocre play during the first two quarters, the Wizards held a brief 74-71 lead midway through the third quarter.
However, Houston would find its groove after Thompson converted a dunk at the 5:36 mark of the period. The Rockets would outscore the Wizards 29-8 to close the third quarter. Green accounted for 15 points during the period.
Corey Kispert led the Wizards with a team-best 16 points, while Jared Butler added 15. With the loss, Washington has dropped 21 of its 23 games amid a five-game losing streak.
