Key Takeaways:
- Kevin Durant recorded 31 points as Houston secured a 104-86 win in Atlanta, halting the Hawks’ four-game winning streak
- The Rockets surged after halftime, outscoring Atlanta 35-24 in the third quarter behind key contributions from Jabari Smith and Reed Sheppard
- Atlanta were severely undermanned, missing several starters due to injuries, including Onyeka Okongwu and Jalen Johnson
Second-Half Display Lifts Rockets in Atlanta
The Houston Rockets overcame a sluggish first half to defeat the short-handed Atlanta Hawks 104-86 on Thursday night, with Kevin Durant leading all scorers on 31 points. Houston’s slender 43-42 halftime advantage grew quickly after the interval, as the visitors dominated the second half to end Atlanta’s four-game winning run.
W in the A ☑️#AllFire pic.twitter.com/dfXe4kMS6V
— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) January 30, 2026
Key Contributors and Turning Points
Jabari Smith added 14 points for Houston, while Reed Sheppard chipped in 13. Sheppard’s three-pointer in the closing stages cemented the Rockets’ control, making it 90-70 for the team’s first 20-point lead of the evening. Alperen Sengun, despite carrying a right ankle sprain and being listed as questionable beforehand, managed nine points and collected 13 rebounds.
The third quarter proved decisive, as Houston outscored Atlanta 35-24 and continued to extend their advantage through the final period.
Atlanta’s Injury Woes Deepen
The Hawks faced significant selection issues, missing two starting line-up regulars due to injuries. Center Onyeka Okongwu, who suffered a dental fracture from an elbow during Atlanta’s 117-106 win in Boston on Wednesday night, underwent a successful dental procedure on Thursday and has been ruled out for Saturday’s fixture in Indiana. Jalen Johnson also missed out due to left calf tightness.
Atlanta were already without Kristaps Porzingis, sidelined by left Achilles tendinitis, and Zaccharie Risacher, who is nursing a contusion in his left knee. To bolster their depleted roster, two-way rookie Asa Newell was recalled from G League affiliate College Park prior to tip-off. Center Christian Koloko, who signed with Atlanta on 17 January, marked his first start in only his fifth appearance.
Hawks’ Standout Performers
CJ McCollum led the scoring effort for Atlanta with 23 points. Nickeil Alexander-Walker contributed 20, while Corey Kispert finished with 17.
Capela Returns to Atlanta, Upcoming Fixtures
Houston’s Clint Capela made his return to Atlanta following his trade to Houston on 6 July, 2025, scoring 10 points. Capela received a video tribute during a first-quarter timeout, acknowledging the home crowd with a double-handed wave.
| Team | Top Scorer | Points | Top Rebounder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston Rockets | Kevin Durant | 31 | Alperen Sengun (13) |
| Atlanta Hawks | CJ McCollum | 23 | Luke Kennard, Asa Newell, Christian Koloko (7) |
Looking Ahead
The Rockets are set to host Dallas on Saturday night, while the Hawks travel to Indiana looking to overcome their current injury challenges.
