The Rockets send James Harden out to try and get the opening tip against Javale McGee

Scottie Barnes amp James Harden push and shove each other a bit while awaiting for the jump ball

James Harden hits the tough 3-pointer to beat the shot clock while Jamal Shead is all over him with a replay

James Harden hits the corner step back 3 to beat the shot clock then finds Evan Mobley for the dunk CMB with the hook shot and Donovan Mitchell the buzzer-beater 3 from almost halfcourt to end the 1st quarter with replays

James Harden calculates the arm reach by Cade Cunningham and splashes the corner 3 And-1 and Evan Mobley with the powerful dunk off the missed free throwCade Cunningham hits the tough jumper over HardenWith replays

James Harden lobs it to Jarrett Allen for the first bucket of the 2026 NBA Playoffs

Marcus Smart lobs it to Jaxson Hayes for the cutting alley-oop dunk as the Rockets defense didn't keep up