The Houston Rockets showcased great defense in a win against the Cleveland Cavaliers, proving why they deserve to be in championship conversations.

Cleveland missed two key free throws in the final seconds of its 109-108 defeat to Houston on Wednesday night.

Alperen Sengun made two free throws with 4.5 seconds left and Darius Garland missed two of three free throws after that to allow the Houston Rockets to hold on for a 109-108 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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Alperen Sengun sank two free throws with 4.5 seconds left and the Houston Rockets survived a seven-minute scoring drought in the fourth quarter to outlast the visiting Cleveland Cavaliers 109-108 on Wednesday.

Donovan Mitchell’s Cleveland Cavaliers (36-6) take to the road to play Alperen Sengun and the Houston Rockets (28-14) at Toyota Center on Wednesday, January 22. The game tips off at 8:00 PM

The Houston Rockets (28-14, second in the Western Conference) are 1-2 in their last three, following a five-game streak. Surprisingly, the Rockets recently lost to the Sacramento Kings and Detroit Pistons.

The Rockets defeated the Cavaliers, 109-108 after some missed free throws by Darius Garland late in the game. Top Performers – Cleveland Darius Garland – 26 points, 3 3PM, 5 assists Donovan Mitchell – 19 points,

Players often experience tough stretches during games, but the best players find ways to bounce back and contribute before the game ends. The Houston Rockets' two stars are still trying to find out how to accomplish the same.

The Houston Rockets Houston gets an A on their report card halfway through the season. They have been succeeding all expectations so far this season. Ime Udoka

Houston Rockets forward Cam Whitmore has flourished since returning to the rotation, and will be a key piece for the team as it looks to make a run in the playoffs.