But for the second time this week, the Rockets proved to be at their best when they are at their worst, rallying from a 20-point first-quarter deficit to wrestle away a 99-89 win Saturday night at Compaq Center.

As with the turnaround from a 39-point loss to Milwaukee to a win over the Timberwolves the next night, the Rockets rebounded following a disinterested defensive start. But this time, they didn't wait until the next game.

They put together their largest comeback of the season and fifth-largest in team history. They also earned consecutive wins against teams with winning records for the first time this season.