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Rockets hold off Wizards, but Trae Young steals the show

Originally posted on Hoops Wire | By Sam Amico | Last updated Mar 2, 2026 11:12 PM ET

The Houston Rockets got the win. But the night in Washington belonged to a player who didn’t even suit up.

Trae Young was ejected from the bench during the Washington Wizards’ 123-118 loss Monday after stepping onto the court to protest a call during a scuffle. Houston’s Tari Eason was also tossed.

Young, who is expected to make his Wizards debut Thursday against the Utah Jazz, hasn’t played since December because of knee and quad injuries. His Washington era technically started Monday. Just not how anyone drew it up.

The Rockets move to 38-22, one game better than their record from last season through 60 games.

The Rockets are now 5-2 after the all star break. pic.twitter.com/GpF9Y3qKfI

— Bradeaux (@BradeauxNBA) March 3, 2026

On the floor, Alperen Sengun delivered 32 points and 13 rebounds, while Kevin Durant added 30 in his only game this season near his Maryland home.

Bilal Coulibaly scored 23 for Washington.

There was also a debut of note. Rookie center Julian Reese — the brother of WNBA star Angel Reese — started and played 28 minutes in his first NBA game.

The Wizards made it interesting late. But this one felt more about what’s coming Thursday than what happened Monday.

This article first appeared on Hoops Wire and was syndicated with permission.

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