The Houston Rockets are making an early statement in the Western Conference, and their undefeated start has placed them in familiar territory. Houston improved to 4-0 Monday night with a 120-110 victory over the Atlanta Hawks, marking the franchise's best start to a season since the 2014-15 campaign. That season, the Rockets won 56 games and advanced to the Western Conference finals before falling to the eventual NBA champion Golden State Warriors.
Now, 12 years later, Houston is hoping its latest undefeated start signals another deep postseason run. Alperen Sengun led the way against Atlanta, finishing with 29 points, nine rebounds and nine assists while shooting an efficient 11-of-15 from the field. The Turkish center also recorded six steals, demonstrating his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor.
Kevin Durant contributed 22 points and nine rebounds, while Jabari Smith Jr. recorded a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds. The Rockets needed contributions throughout their lineup after Atlanta threatened to spoil their perfect record. Houston trailed 66-63 at halftime before taking control during the third quarter.
However, the Hawks refused to go away, cutting Houston's advantage to 95-93 early in the fourth. That's when the Rockets delivered their biggest response of the night. Houston erupted for 14 consecutive points, with Reed Sheppard and Tari Eason connecting on three-pointers to help extend the lead to 109-93.
The decisive run ultimately allowed the Rockets to pull away and secure their fourth straight victory. Beyond their undefeated record, Houston's start carries another interesting historical connection. The Rockets also opened both of their championship-winning seasons in 1993-94 and 1994-95 with four consecutive victories.
Although matching those championship teams' early records doesn't guarantee similar postseason success, it highlights the significance of Houston's current momentum. The Rockets have now defeated the Dallas Mavericks, San Antonio Spurs and Atlanta Hawks twice to open the season. For head coach Ime Udoka, the early success reflects a roster capable of winning through multiple contributors rather than relying exclusively on Durant.
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