Three Takeaways from the Rockets' Overtime Win Over the Magic

On Sunday night, the Houston Rockets took on the Orlando Magic, hoping to continue one of the best stretches in the league.

Houston came into the game as one of the league's hottest teams, winning eight of its last nine in a stingy NBA. The Magic had seen an underwhelming start, starting just 7-6 after starting a new era with Desmond Bane, though four-straight wins made up for the lackluster start.

Ultimately, Houston was able to narrowly edge out Orlando in a come-from-behind effort. Here are three takeaways from the overtime thriller:

Houston Outlasts Orlando in Extra Innings

Orlando led for most of regulation, but superstar-level plays from Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun were able to help the Rockets force and win overtime in Toyota Center.

It started with a late Durant three, which tied the game late in regulation. Sengun's post-moves would carry the first half of overtime, with Durant's shot and play-making capping the game.

In back-to-back possessions, the 37-year-old superstar would assist Amen Thompson in the dunker spot, as well as hit a jumper of his own to give Houston's an arm's length lead and seal the game.

Durant, Sengun Continue to be one of League’s Top Duos

Durant and Sengun combined for 65 points in total, with the former doing so on blistering efficiency. They also managed to combine for 14 total assists in showing off some great play-making, though that was coupled with the Magic turning the duo over 10 times.

The duo’s lack of 3-point shooting — just 2-for-9 combined on the night — was made up for with 15 made free throws, which helped to keep Houston in the game.

The two went to the two-man game late, throwing passing back-and-forth before a Sengun-assisted Durant triple would give the Rockets their first lead since the game was 4-3. Durant would then hit a game-tying three with just seconds remaining in the game. And a similarly successful overtime would help to close the game out.

Reed Sheppard Continues Hot Streak

Now amid his sophomore season, backup guard Reed Sheppard has continued to play well, and the team certainly needed it to keep things close against the Magic.

Sheppard has now scored in double figures in his last eight games, going for 16 points on 6-for-11 shooting against the Magic, including two game-winning free throws in overtime.

Only he and Aaron Holiday were able to help with double figures of the bench, as backup center Steven Adams hit just one field goal.

The Rockets next take on the Cavaliers and Nuggets, both of which will offer tough tests in each conference. Houston takes on Cleveland on Nov. 19, and Denver on Nov. 21.