On February 7, 2026, the Houston Rockets secured a thrilling 112-106 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, despite the absence of star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander due to an abdominal strain. Tari Eason led the Rockets with a season-high 26 points, while Alperen Sengun achieved his second triple-double of the season, contributing 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists. Jabari Smith Jr. added 22 points and 10 rebounds, and Kevin Durant, despite limited shot attempts, scored 20 points. Cason Wallace and Isaiah Joe led the Thunder with 23 and 21 points, respectively.
The Thunder faced challenges with key players absent, including 2025 All-Star Jalen Williams and rising star Ajay Mitchell. However, second-year guard Jared McCain made his debut with the team, entering late in the first quarter to a warm reception from fans. McCain finished with five points in 14 minutes.
Oklahoma City fans, still holding a grudge against Durant for his departure 9 1/2 years prior, booed him during pregame introductions. They cheered when Durant missed two free throws in the second quarter after being fouled. McCain's first basket for the Thunder came with about nine minutes left in the second quarter, and an alley-oop from Joe to Wallace gave the Thunder a 46-32 lead. Oklahoma City led 52-46 at halftime, with Chet Holmgren contributing 10 points and 10 rebounds.
Houston dominated the third quarter, taking an 80-74 lead into the final period. Durant's short jumper in the fourth quarter gave the Rockets a 107-101 lead with under a minute to play. The Rockets ultimately secured the win, setting the stage for their upcoming match against the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday.
The Thunder, meanwhile, will face the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday, with the team's performance in the post-All-Star break period remaining a key focus.
