Houston Rockets Trail Blazers at the Half in Portland

The Houston Rockets entered halftime on the wrong side of the scoreboard Sunday night, trailing the Portland Trail Blazers 57-47 after a streaky first half at Moda Center. Houston struggled to find rhythm early but showed flashes late in the second quarter, reminding fans why this young group continues to build confidence with every outing.

Portland attacked quickly, leaning on efficient outside shooting and second-chance scoring to keep Houston on its heels. The Rockets countered with aggressive drives, ball movement, and strong minutes off the bench, but inconsistency plagued them throughout the first 24 minutes.

Rockets Look to Reset in the Second Half

While Houston’s offense generated quality looks, converting them proved more challenging. Missed opportunities inside, coupled with turnovers in transition, allowed Portland to maintain control. Still, Houston’s defensive spurts late in the half hinted that momentum may be shifting.

For a team focused on growth, this type of road atmosphere tests the Rockets’ resilience. Young players continue learning how to respond when shots aren’t falling and momentum swings away. The upcoming half presents a critical window to tighten defensive execution and lean on their fast-paced identity.

Why It Matters

These mid-season matchups against rebuilding teams like Portland matter for Houston’s trajectory. Every game carries developmental weight as the Rockets chase improved chemistry and playoff aspirations. A win on the road would reinforce their progress, especially in environments where the margin for error shrinks.

This article is a summary of reporting by Yahoo Sports. Read the full story here.