Rockets Hold Off Murray’s 38 Points in 110-100 Win Over Nuggets

Final Result

The Houston Rockets secured a 110-100 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Monday, November 9, 2026, at the Toyota Center. The win improves Houston’s record to 8-3, while Denver falls to 5-4.

Game Flow

Houston established an early advantage, outscoring Denver 32-24 in the first quarter. The Rockets built their lead through efficient perimeter shooting and transition offense. Kevin Durant opened the scoring for Houston with a three-point jumper assisted by Alperen Sengun, setting the tone for the home team’s offensive output.

The second quarter saw the Rockets extend their dominance, winning the period 22-16 to take a commanding lead into halftime. Houston’s offense remained fluid, with multiple players contributing to the scoring tally. The defense held firm against Denver’s attempts to close the gap, limiting the Nuggets’ scoring efficiency during this stretch.

Denver attempted a comeback in the third quarter, winning the period 28-23. Jamal Murray led the charge for the visitors, hitting several key shots to keep the game within reach. However, Houston maintained its composure, responding with steady scoring to preserve its advantage.

The fourth quarter was tightly contested, with Denver outscoring Houston 32-33 in the period. Despite the Nuggets’ efforts, the Rockets held on to secure the ten-point victory. The final minutes saw both teams trading baskets, but Houston’s early lead proved insurmountable for Denver.

Key Performances

Kevin Durant was instrumental in the Rockets' success, recording a double-double with 23 points and 12 rebounds. He also contributed 8 assists, facilitating the offense effectively throughout the game. His ability to score from various positions and create opportunities for teammates was crucial to Houston’s offensive strategy.

For Denver, Jamal Murray delivered a standout performance with 38 points. He was the primary scorer for the Nuggets, attempting to carry his team to victory through individual effort. Nikola Jokic also had a significant impact, recording 16 rebounds and 9 assists, highlighting his role in controlling the boards and distributing the ball.

Season Context

This result marks another chapter in the ongoing rivalry between these two Western Conference teams. The Rockets’ victory showcases their resilience and depth, while the Nuggets will look to regroup and improve upon this loss as the season progresses.

Sources

ESPN