NBA: Houston Rockets hand Orlando Magic fifth straight loss

Houston, Dec 9 Houston Rockets beat Orlando Magic 98-88 Sunday night at the Toyota Center here, keeping a two-game win streak at home and handing the visitors their fifth straight loss.

Rockets blasted Magic after a slow start, leading 52-38 at halftime. But they stumbled in the second half, missing free throws and committing turnovers. Magic was able to cut a 22-point deficit to 10 midway through the fourth quarter. With James Harden‘s and Dwight Howard‘s relentless play, the host team won eventually, reports Xinhua.

Howard had his first 20-20 game since leaving his first former team Orlando, getting 20 points and 22 rebounds, making 8 of 14 free throws, in a stunning performance to celebrate his 28th birthday Sunday.

Harden delivered an all-around performance, dominating the whole game. He had 27 points and 10 assists, his seven 20-10 game with the Rockets, coming two rebounds short of a triple double.

Terrence Jones chipped in 16 points and 13 rebounds. Chandler Parsons, who missed two games because of a sore back, started for Houston and had 18 points.

Glenn Davis scored 18 points for Orlando.

With the win, Houston has improved to 15-7 on the season. They will play the Trail Blazers on Thursday.