Late-game scoring drought sinks Rockets in Miami as Heat close strong to end Houston streak

Heat finish game with fourth-quarter surge

The Houston Rockets’ three-game winning streak ended Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, with a 115-105 road loss to the Miami Heat at Kaseya Center. Houston entered the matchup at 37-22 and left Miami having failed to match the Heat’s efficiency in the final period, as Miami improved to 32-29.

The game remained competitive into the second half. After Miami led 32-28 at the end of the first quarter, Houston moved in front by halftime, 52-51. Miami then regained control after the break, taking a 85-83 lead into the fourth before outscoring the Rockets 30-22 in the final 12 minutes.

Fourth quarter defined by missed shots and Heat shot-making

Houston’s offense stalled during key stretches of the fourth quarter, a decisive factor in a game where the Rockets were otherwise able to stay within striking distance. Miami shot 50.0% from the field for the game, while Houston finished at 43.2% and made 9 of 36 attempts from three-point range (25.0%). Miami hit 11 threes on 31 attempts (35.5%).

The Heat also found timely scoring beyond their primary options. Pelle Larsson scored 20 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter, helping Miami create separation. Bam Adebayo led the Heat with 24 points and 11 rebounds, while Tyler Herro added 18 points and Jaime Jaquez Jr. scored 14. Kel’el Ware posted a double-double with 13 points and 15 rebounds.

Durant leads Houston, but supporting production couldn’t offset late deficit

Kevin Durant paced the Rockets with 32 points, along with eight assists and six rebounds. Amen Thompson scored 20 points, and Reed Sheppard added 14 for Houston.

Houston held an edge on the glass (59-54) and recorded more assists (26-22), but those advantages did not translate into enough late scoring to overcome Miami’s fourth-quarter run. Both teams attempted a similar number of free throws, with Miami going 14-of-20 and Houston 14-of-21.

Lineup and availability notes

Houston played without forward Jabari Smith Jr., who was sidelined by an ankle sprain. The Rockets adjusted their rotation as they navigated the absence, and the team’s closing sequence was marked by missed attempts that prevented a final push.

• Final score: Heat 115, Rockets 105

• Quarter-by-quarter: Miami led 32-28 after 1; Houston led 52-51 at half; Miami led 85-83 after 3

• Key statistical gap: Miami 35.5% from three; Houston 25.0%

Houston’s comeback to take a halftime lead kept the game within reach, but Miami’s fourth-quarter production ultimately determined the outcome.