Davison Shines as Rockets Top Hawks 122-113 in Preseason Opener

HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Rockets claimed a 122-113 victory over the Atlanta Hawks in Wednesday’s preseason clash at Toyota Center, using a strong showing from reserves and improved interior play to carry them.

Alperen Şengün led the way, finishing with 19 points, six rebounds and six assists while asserting himself physically in the paint. He created scoring chances for himself and others, drawing attention that helped open up the floor for Houston’s perimeter players.

J.D. Davison burst off the bench, scoring 17 points and injecting energy into Houston’s second unit. He attacked mismatches, forced his way to the line, and showed a competitive edge on the defensive end. His performance raised his stock in a crowded guard rotation still searching for defined roles.

With Fred VanVleet sidelined by injury, the Rockets handed more ball-handling and playmaking duties to Reed Sheppard, Amen Thompson and other young guards. The secondary units showed flashes of cohesion, though occasional miscues and turnovers surfaced under pressure. Houston committed 14 turnovers in the game, compared to Atlanta’s 18.

Houston’s shot selection and ball movement improved as the evening wore on, particularly in the third quarter, when they separated by double digits. They were able to survive an Atlanta surge down the stretch, thanks to timely free throws and strategic defensive rotations.

Though the final score won’t carry over to the regular season, Houston’s performance offered encouraging signs. Şengün’s assertiveness and Davison’s spark stood out, especially as the Rockets navigate a season without VanVleet. If Houston can continue to build from these glimpses — with role players stepping up and balance across units — it may head into the season with more confidence than many anticipated.