Clint Capela made his return to Atlanta on Thursday night, and the Hawks faithful didn’t let the moment pass quietly. Before tip-off, the crowd at State Farm Arena rose to their feet to show appreciation for a player who gave them five strong seasons-seasons that included a memorable trip to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021. The tribute video that played on the jumbotron was a heartfelt nod to Capela’s impact on the franchise, and the big man clearly took it all in with gratitude.
Capela’s time in Atlanta was defined by consistency and defensive presence. In 330 games with the Hawks, he averaged 11.8 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game, shooting just under 60% from the field. His efforts didn’t go unnoticed-he finished sixth in Defensive Player of the Year voting back in 2021, anchoring a defense that helped push Atlanta deeper into the postseason than they’d been in decades.
But sentimentality aside, Capela came to play. Now wearing Rockets red, he helped Houston cruise to a 104-86 win over his former team.
The Hawks honored Clint Capela with a tribute video before tonight’s Hawks-Rockets matchup 🙌
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 30, 2026
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The game was tight through the first half-Houston held just a 43-42 lead at the break-but the third quarter was where things shifted. The Rockets erupted for a 35-point frame, seizing control and never giving Atlanta a chance to claw back.
Capela was efficient and effective in his role, finishing with 10 points on a perfect 4-of-4 shooting night, along with seven rebounds, two blocks, an assist, and a steal. It was a classic Capela performance-low-maintenance, high-impact.
Of course, he had plenty of help. Kevin Durant led the way with 31 points and five boards, putting on yet another scoring clinic.
Jabari Smith Jr. chipped in 14 points and eight rebounds, Reed Sheppard added 13 points and four assists, and Josh Okogie came off the bench with a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds. In total, five Rockets scored in double figures, showcasing the kind of depth that’s helped them climb the Western Conference standings.
With the win, Houston improved to 29-17, holding firm in the fourth spot out West. They’re sitting above both the Lakers and Timberwolves, and keeping pace with the Nuggets and Spurs in a tightly packed top tier.
Next up, the Rockets head back home to host the Dallas Mavericks on January 31. If this team keeps clicking the way it did in the second half against Atlanta, they’ll be a tough out for anyone.