The Houston Rockets defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder, 111-98, in Game 2 of the Western Conference first-round playoffs on Thursday at Orlando.

The Thunder got out to a good start and held the edge for much of the first quarter, but the Rockets closed the quarter on a 6-2 run, to grab a five-point lead heading into the second. The Rockets controlled the start of the second quarter, but the Thunder stuck around and pulled ahead in the final few minutes before the half, with a six-point lead at the break. Things slowed down in the third, where the Rockets rallied for a brief eight-point lead, but the Thunder regained a one-point advantage entering the final frame. The Rockets blew the game open as they started the fourth with a 17-2 run, to take a 14-point lead mid way through the quarter. The Thunder had no answers in the clutch, as they could not make up significant ground resulting in a 2-0 series lead for Houston.

Seven players scored in double digits for the Rockets, led by James Harden, who finished with 21 points, nine assists, five rebounds, three steals and a block, in 36 minutes. Danuel House Jr. followed up with 19 points, nine rebounds and three assists, while Eric Gordon and Jeff Green added 15 points each. The Rockets shot 42 percent from the field, including 19-of-56 from deep.

Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 31 points, six rebounds, two assists and a steal, in 37 minutes of action. Danilo Gallinari added 17 points, five rebounds and an assist, while Chris Paul finished with 14 points, six rebounds, two assists and a block. The Thunder shot 44 percent from the field, including 11-of-32 from long range.

Game 3 takes place on Saturday.