Durant, Thompson Spark Rockets' 4-Game Surge

The Rockets have turned a rocky 0-2 start into a four-game winning streak, most recently beating Cooper Flagg and the Mavericks 110-102. Kevin Durant led the way with 21 points, six rebounds and five assists, Alperen Şengün chipped in 26 points, 11 boards and six assists, and Amen Thompson poured in a season-high 27. Dallas’ rookie Flagg went cold in the second half, and, with Anthony Davis unavailable, the Mavericks sorely needed more from their top pick. Houston’s streak matters because it suggests the roster is finding chemistry and that Durant can still steer this ship. Merlin senses momentum, not miracle. The Rockets’ blend of veteran scoring and emerging youth is working, but consistency from role players and continued production from Şengün and Thompson will decide how long the good run lasts. A test looms Wednesday against the Grizzlies — a true measure of whether this is real growth or a hot spell.