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Pelle Larsson credited Miami’s defensive focus for their 115-105 victory over the Houston Rockets on Saturday at Kaseya Center.

“I think we got stops on defense. We were flying around in that zone just covering for each other,” Larsson said, describing the Heat’s fourth-quarter effort. “On offense it was bonus … so we just got straight to the paint and got easy free throws or layups.”

Larsson explained his aggressive approach against Alperen Sengun. “I’m always going to be available … so when I get it, I just be ready to make a play downhill, shoot it, or be a screener like I was for Tyler in the first half.”

He highlighted the chemistry with Kel’el Ware, calling it “just easy when you play with him. I realized it very early when we played in summer league two years ago. I can kind of just throw it wherever and he usually makes me look good.”

On the team’s defensive cohesion, Larsson added, “I loved it. Rebounding is their biggest strength … he helps us with that and he did a great job, absolutely.”

Larsson scored 20 points, including 10 in the decisive fourth quarter, helping the Heat overcome an early 14-4 deficit with a 37-14 run to take control. Bam Adebayo added 24 points and 11 rebounds, Tyler Herro had 18, Jaime Jaquez Jr. contributed 14, and Ware finished with 13 points and 15 boards.

The Rockets, missing Jabari Smith Jr., were led by Kevin Durant with 32 points, eight assists, and six rebounds. Amen Thompson scored 20 and Reed Sheppard added 14.

Miami’s victory came despite being without Norman Powell, sidelined with a right groin strain.

The Heat will host the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday, while Houston visits Washington on Monday.

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