The Phoenix Suns defeated the visiting Houston Rockets, 126-120, at Phoenix Suns Arena Monday.

This was a tale of two halves but an 81-58 first half carried Phoenix to their win. Houston actually outscored Houston in the second half, 62-45, but never got within five points for the final 30 minutes of play. The Suns shot 25-of-45 from three-point range while the Rockets connected on 17-of-42. In addition, Phoenix recorded 14 steals while winning the turnover battle, 21-13.

The Rockets (14-40) were led by Christian Wood and his 25 points, 15 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Kevin Porter accumulated 22 points, five rebounds, 14 assists and two steals. Kelly Olynyk had 16 points and eight boards while John Wall compiled 13 points, two rebounds and eight assists. Jae'Sean Tate finished with 10 points, five rebounds, four assists and three steals.

The Suns (38-15) were led by Jae Crowder, amassing 26 points, two rebounds and two assists on 8-of-12 from three-point range. Devin Booker collected 24 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. Deandre Ayton totaled 18 points, eight rebounds and three steals while Chris Paul generated nine points, four rebounds and 10 assists.

Phoenix has to play the second half of a back-to-back set on Tuesday, staying home to face the Miami Heat. As for Houston, they return home to play the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday for their next outing.