Rockets beat Kings; Kevin Durant says transition offense was a key factor.

2025-12-05 08:12

In another key game of the 2025/26 NBA regular season, the Houston Rockets defeated the Sacramento Kings 121-95 at home, thanks to contributions from Alperen Shinkyung, Kevin Durant, and Armin Thompson. Kevin Durant stated that the team's ball movement and transition offense were key to their victory.

According to the data, Alperen Shinkyung scored 28 points and 3 assists in this game, Kevin Durant contributed 24 points and 8 assists, while Amen Thompson contributed 20 points and 7 assists for the Houston Rockets.

"We did a better job moving the ball around and were able to score easily a lot of times in transition," said Kevin Durant, 37, in an interview. "Stephen Adams was a strong presence in the paint, scoring 11 points and grabbing 8 rebounds in 18 minutes, including 5 offensive rebounds, and he also had 2 blocks, which set the tone for the team."

"Amen Thompson carries a huge responsibility. When he can push the pace in transition, grab rebounds, score on alley-oops, and block shots, it's an improvement for the whole team, and everyone draws energy from it."

Kevin Durant also said, "We prefer to get efficient shots inside. If the paint is open, why take random three-pointers? Josh Okogie is good at defense. He fights for offensive rebounds and reaches for every ball. So you can put him in the starting lineup or he can come off the bench. He's always the same player."

"Many three-point opportunities come from starting the attack inside, and good defensive teams will double-team inside, forcing players to pass the ball to the outside for three-pointers. Even if it's not a turnover by the opponent, we still need to advance the ball to the frontcourt and try to score easily, or even score 30 points on a fast break. That's the key to the game."