Rockets Fall To Cavaliers As Jalen Green Shines In Road Loss

Jalen Green had a bounce-back performance Sunday against the Cavaliers, but his play wasn't enough to prevent the Houston Rockets from falling in Cleveland.

The Houston Rockets knew their five-game road trip would be challenging. And three games in, the Rockets are 0-3 following their 108-91 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers Sunday night inside Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.

Jalen Green had another efficient performance with 30 points on 10-for-17 shooting, 5-11 from behind the arc. If not for Green's on-court production, the Rockets may have had a repeat outing of their 37-point defeat to the Memphis Grizzlies Friday night. 

Houston held a brief two-point lead (12-10) at the 7:28 mark of the first quarter. But once the Cavaliers began to find their offensive rhythm, Cleveland took a 33-22 lead into the second quarter. And by halftime, the Cavaliers held a 60-43 lead at the half.

The Rockets were on the verge of their second consecutive blowout loss until Green erupted for 14 points in the third period. Behind Green's play, the Rockets embarked on a 14-2 run. And by the end of the quarter, Houston trailed the Cavaliers 85-80 after trailing by as many as 20 points.

Houston played the Cavaliers close at the start of the fourth quarter. But once Cleveland picked up their defensive production, it was enough to withstand Houston's comeback attempt. 

Four players scored in double figures for the Rockets in addition to Green. Alperen Sengun added 14 points, while K.J. Martin added 13 points in the loss.

Jarrett Allen had a dominating performance against the Rockets. He finished with a team-best 24 points, 14 rebounds and added three blocks. Donovan Mitchell added 22 points on 8-for-16 shooting, 4-9 from deep in the win.

Kevin Porter Jr.'s first return to Cleveland:

Kevin Porter Jr. has been with the Rockets since January 2021. But due to several injuries, Porter never had a chance to play in Cleveland — until tonight. Sunday marked Porter's first game in Cleveland since his controversial jettison. He struggled in his return with six points while missing nine of his 12 attempts from the field.

Jae'Sean Tate missed his fourth consecutive game:

Jae'Sean Tate missed his fourth consecutive game due to a sore left knee. Coach Stephen Silas said there isn't a timetable for his return. But amid his absence, the Rockets have missed his on-court versatility.

Up Next:

The Rockets will continue their five-game road trip Monday night against the New York Knicks. Houston will close their road trip Wednesday night versus the Brooklyn Nets inside Barclays Center.

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