Kevin Durant Ties Carmelo Anthony with 12th Career Game-Winner in Clutch Rockets Victory Over Pelicans

Kevin Durant delivered 32 points including a game-winning bucket in the final 10 seconds, tying Carmelo Anthony's record as Houston edges New Orleans 107-105 to extend their win streak.

Kevin Durant etched his name deeper into NBA history on March 13, 2026, tying Carmelo Anthony for the most game-winning shots in the final 10 seconds since entering the league in 2007-08. With the Houston Rockets trailing the New Orleans Pelicans 105-107, Durant scored his 12th such clutch bucket, securing a 107-105 victory that snapped a tight contest and boosted Houston's momentum in the Western Conference playoff race. This performance, featuring 32 points on 13-24 shooting, underscores Durant's enduring elite status at age 37.

As of: March 15, 2026

Alex Rivera, Senior NBA Analyst. Durant's timeless clutch gene reshapes Rockets' postseason trajectory.

The Clutch Moment That Defined the Game

In a game marked by explosive plays and defensive stands, Durant's heroics came in the dying seconds. With the score knotted late, he isolated, shook his defender, and nailed the winner, finishing with 32 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists. This ties him with Melo for 12 such game-winners, a testament to his scoring prowess under pressure. For the Rockets, who have won seven of their last 10, this victory provides crucial breathing room in the tight West standings.

The Pelicans, led by Dejounte Murray's 35 points, fought valiantly but couldn't contain Durant's mid-range mastery. Murray's speed and scoring kept New Orleans in it, but Houston's offensive rebounding and Durant's free throws in crunch time proved decisive.

Durant's Historic Legacy and Statistical Dominance

Durant's 12th game-winner since 2007-08 places him alongside Carmelo Anthony, highlighting his unparalleled clutch reliability. At 13-24 from the field with 3 threes, he was unstoppable, scoring 27 of Houston's points in key stretches. This performance extends his streak of sub-30 point games while remaining elite, tying a season-long mark.

For fans tracking NBA latest news, Durant's ageless form raises questions about his Hall of Fame trajectory and potential for another title run. His slimmed-down physique has boosted explosiveness, allowing drives that younger stars envy.

Implications for Rockets' Playoff Push

This win positions Houston favorably in the Western Conference playoff race. Beating a competitive Pelicans squad extends their streak, with upcoming games against top teams testing their mettle. Standings updates show them climbing, thanks to contributions from Amen Thompson's double-double (23 points, 12 rebounds) and Reed Shepard's 18 points.

Risks remain: Durant's heavy minutes could lead to fatigue, and the West's parity means every game counts. Yet, this victory signals momentum, vital for seeding and home-court advantage as the season nears its climax.

Pelicans' Response and Western Conference Ripple Effects

New Orleans drops a winnable game despite Murray's heroics and Zion Williamson's interior presence. Their six straight home wins prior made this loss sting, impacting their own playoff aspirations. Houston's resilience exposes Pelicans' transition defense as a vulnerability.

Broader NBA today context: Saturday's slate saw Timberwolves crush Warriors behind Anthony Edwards' 42, Clippers extend streak over Bulls, and more, tightening the West. Durant's win adds fuel to the chaos.

Key Player Matchups and Tactical Breakdown

Durant vs. Pelicans' frontcourt was a mismatch; his footwork dismantled doubles. Thompson's rebounding (12) and Shepard's shooting complemented perfectly. Murray's 35 showed All-Star caliber, but turnovers hurt.

Tactics: Houston's pace and offensive glass (multiple key boards) overwhelmed New Orleans' slower retreats. For Rockets news, this validates Ime Udoka's system emphasizing stars.

Looking Ahead: Schedules and Stakes

Houston eyes continued climb with favorable matchups. Sunday's games like Lakers-Nuggets could shift standings further. Durant's health is the catalyst; any dip risks their top-6 seed.

For bettors and fantasy players, Durant's clutch upside remains gold. NBA news today spotlights his record-tying feat as a pivotal development.

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