The Houston Rockets became the first team in the NBA this season to grab at least 50 rebounds on nine different occasions as they beat the Orlando Magic 98-88 at the Toyota Centre on Sunday.

James Harden and Dwight Howard were impressive for the home side as Harden put in a great defensive shift, while also collecting 27 points, a season-high-tying 10 assists and eight rebounds.

Howard was equal to Harden, helping to push his side home with 20 points, 22 boards, three blocks, having collected his first 20-point, 20-rebound effort for the Rockets.

Glen Davis put in the only noteworthy performance for Orlando as he scored 18 points and snatched six rebounds, with the visitors losing their fifth consecutive game, having fallen to 1-9 on the road this season.

The Rockets have now won eight of their last nine home matches and seven of their last nine NBA encounters overall.