The Houston Rockets defeated the host Utah Jazz, 126-117, at Vivint Smart Home Arena on Monday.

While Houston was extremely shorthanded in this game, they dominated throughout. In fact, they took control with a 28-20 first quarter and then took a 13-point lead into the half thanks to a 31-26 second quarter. Utah never got the game within a six-point margin after that. Getting to the free-throw line was the only major difference in the stat sheet, with the Rockets hitting 35-of-49 and the Jazz connecting on 19-of-26.

The Rockets (29-17) played this game without Russell Westbrook, James Harden and Clint Capela but still somehow won. Eric Gordon dropping a career-high was a major reason why, collecting 50 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals. Austin Rivers generated 21 points, four rebounds and two blocks. Danuel House amassed 21 points, 11 rebounds and five steals while P.J. Tucker totaled nine points, 10 rebounds and five assists.

The Jazz (32-14) were led by Donovan Mitchell and his 36 points, three rebounds, four assists and three steals. Bojan Bogdanovic dropped 30 points. Rudy Gobert finished with 12 points, 14 rebounds and two blocks. Mike Conley led the bench with 10 points, three rebounds and four assists. Joe Ingles had seven points and six assists.

Both teams return to action on Wednesday, with Houston staying on the road to face the Portland Trail Blazers and Utah traveling to play the San Antonio Spurs.