Houston’s losing streak is now at 12 games after Friday’s 116-101 loss (box score) at Denver. With the loss and wins by Orlando and Detroit, the young Rockets have taken possession of the league’s worst record, which currently gives them the pole position for the 2022 NBA draft lottery.
Though reigning MVP Nikola Jokic was sidelined by a non-COVID illness, it didn’t seem to matter much for the Nuggets, since veteran center DeMarcus Cousins — who played with the Rockets last season — stepped in and had 31 points (71.4% FG) and 9 rebounds in only 24 minutes.
Christian Wood led Houston with 22 points (58.3% FG), 10 rebounds, and 5 assists, but his defensive deficiencies were often problematic versus Cousins. Rookie guard Jalen Green was efficient again with 18 points on 7-of-14 shooting (50.0% FG), along with 7 assists and 5 rebounds.
Rookie big man Alperen Sengun added 11 points (50.0% FG) and 10 rebounds in 22 minutes off the Houston bench, while veteran guard Eric Gordon scored 11 points and hit 3-of-5 on 3-pointers (60.0%).
Scroll on for highlights and postgame reaction.
