The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Houston Rockets at home, 98-80. Despite playing without Russell Westbrook for a 2nd consecutive game, the Thunder once again relied on their defense (11 steals, 37.8% shooting by Houston) and controlling the glass to prevent easy second chance points to position themselves for the win. This victory earns them their 7th consecutive in the win column moving them back into the middle of the pack in the West. More important, the team is wrapping themselves around a renewed identity of defense-first that can sustain itself even without their starting backcourt.
Thunder vs Rockets, final score: OKC defense shuts down Houston, 98-80
