Rockets Defeat Thunder as Eason Leads Scorers

Tari Eason's 26 points power Houston past shorthanded OKC squad

Feb. 7, 2026 at 5:47pm

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The Houston Rockets defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 112-106 on Saturday, led by a game-high 26 points from forward Tari Eason. Alperen Sengun recorded a triple-double for the Rockets, while Cason Wallace paced the Thunder with 23 points. OKC was without star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander due to an abdominal strain.

Why it matters

The loss marks the Thunder's second straight defeat, as they continue to navigate injuries to key players. Meanwhile, the Rockets have now won four consecutive road games, showcasing their depth and ability to win without relying solely on Kevin Durant.

The details

Eason was the standout performer, securing an offensive rebound and drawing a foul in the final minute to help seal the Rockets' victory. Sengun also had a dominant all-around game, recording 17 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists. For the Thunder, Wallace stepped up in Gilgeous-Alexander's absence, leading the team with 23 points on efficient shooting. However, OKC struggled at the free-throw line, missing nine attempts.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
  • This was the second game since January 9 that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has missed for the Thunder due to an abdominal strain.

The players

Tari Eason

A fourth-year forward for the Houston Rockets who led all scorers with 26 points and 8 rebounds.

Alperen Sengun

The Rockets' center who recorded a triple-double with 17 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists.

Cason Wallace

The Thunder's starting point guard in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's absence, who led OKC with 23 points, 4 assists and 4 rebounds.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Thunder's star player who missed the game due to an abdominal strain and will be out through the NBA All-Star break.

Jared McCain

The Thunder rookie who made his debut, scoring 5 points in 14 minutes of play.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Thunder will look to bounce back from this loss when they return to action after the All-Star break.

The takeaway

This game highlighted the Rockets' depth and ability to win without relying solely on Kevin Durant, while also showcasing the Thunder's continued struggles with injuries to key players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.