Rockets Survive Hornets' Late-Game Push For Road Win In Charlotte

The Houston Rockets began their final road trip of the season in a 112-109 victory over the Charlotte Hornets.

The Houston Rockets entered the fourth quarter holding an 85-73 lead over the Charlotte Hornets and extended their advantage to 14 points.

The Hornets put a scare into the Rockets by cutting Houston's lead to five points with 5 minutes and 47 seconds left in the quarter. And with 24.1 seconds left, the Rockets held a three-point lead over the Hornets.

But Charlotte failed to capitalize on Houston's late-game struggles, which led to the Rockets' 119-109 victory Friday night inside the Spectrum Center.

Jalen Green and Kevin Porter Jr. had another performance that showcased the promise of Houston's backcourt. They combined for 52 points by scoring 26 points a piece. Green finished with six assists, while Porter added five rebounds and a pair of steals in the win.

Alperen Sengun had another sensational night with 14 points on 7-for-13 shooting and a career-best 21 rebounds.

All five starters scored in double figures, with K.J. Martin scoring 14 points, while Jabari Smith Jr. finished with 13. Smith also recorded three blocks in the win.

Svi Mykhailiuk led the way for Charlotte with a team-high 25 points on 5-for-14 shooting from behind the arc. Theo Maledon proved to be a tough defensive matchup for Houston. He finished with 22 points on 8-for-15 shooting, 4-for-8 from 3-point range.  

Rockets' two-game series vs. Hornets:

With the win, the Rockets ended their two-game regular-season series with a 1-1 tie against the Hornets. Charlotte recorded their lone victory of the season against Houston on Jan. 18 inside the Toyota Center.

Jae'Sean Tate's Injury Update:

Jae'Sean Tate missed his ninth consecutive game due to a sore left knee. Coach Stephen Silas said Tate is trying to work his way back, but his recovery is taking longer than expected. Per The Athletic, Tate will likely miss the Rockets' season finale.

Up Next:

The Rockets will close their 2022-23 season Sunday afternoon against the Washington Wizards.

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