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The Rockets’ offensive firepower overwhelms the Jazz in a high-scoring affair, as Houston clinches a playoff spot with a decisive victory.Houston Today
Kevin Durant scored 25 points on 8-of-12 shooting as the Houston Rockets cruised to a 140-106 victory over the struggling Utah Jazz. The Rockets, who have now won five straight games, clinched a playoff spot with the win and sit just one game behind the Denver Nuggets for fourth place in the Western Conference standings. Amen Thompson added 21 points for Houston, while Alperen Sengun chipped in 19. The Jazz, led by Cody Williams’ 27 points and 11 rebounds, have now lost eight consecutive games and 12 of their last 13.
Why it matters
The Rockets’ decisive win over the Jazz not only clinched a playoff berth for Houston, but also kept them in the hunt for a higher seed in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, Utah’s continued struggles highlight the team’s challenges this season as they look to rebuild and return to contention.
The details
The Rockets jumped out to an early lead and never looked back, leading by as many as 29 points in the second half. Houston shot 55.6% from the field and outscored the Jazz 72-48 in the paint. The Jazz struggled mightily from 3-point range, connecting on just 5-of-27 attempts.
The Rockets clinched a playoff spot on Thursday, April 3, 2026.The game was played on Friday, April 4, 2026.
The players
Kevin Durant
A star forward for the Houston Rockets who scored 25 points on 8-of-12 shooting in the win.
Amen Thompson
A Rockets guard who scored 21 points to help lead Houston to the victory.
Alperen Sengun
A Rockets center who contributed 19 points in the win.
Cody Williams
A Jazz forward who led Utah with 27 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.
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What they’re saying
“We’re playing our best basketball at the right time. This was a big win for us as we look to secure a high seed in the playoffs.”
— Kevin Durant, Rockets Forward
“We just couldn’t get anything going offensively tonight. Houston is a tough team and they really took it to us from the start.”
— Cody Williams, Jazz Forward
What’s next
The Rockets will look to continue their strong play when they visit the Golden State Warriors on Sunday, April 6. The Jazz, meanwhile, will try to snap their eight-game losing streak when they travel to face the Oklahoma City Thunder on the same day.
The takeaway
The Rockets’ decisive victory over the struggling Jazz not only clinched a playoff spot for Houston, but also kept them in contention for a higher seed in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, Utah’s continued woes highlight the team’s need to regroup and find solutions as they work to rebuild and return to contention.