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

Down by as much as 13 points against the Rockets, the Cavs found a defensive spark in their zone-based scheme from big man Jarrett Allen.

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 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,

The Houston Rockets' identity starts with their defense. They're known as a team that wins using physical defense to slow down opposing scoring attacks. However

Jalen Green's scoring streak is a huge boost, but the Rockets' revival on offense is also thanks to players like Amen Thompson and Fred VanVleet.

As is tradition, we here at The Bounce hand out the highest honors when the regular season ends, but we also do so at midseason! Just so you know: The Bouncies are among basketball’s most prestigious awards — not just anybody can receive this honor.