Houston Rockets vs
Portland Trail BlazersPredictions & Preview

Houston Rockets favored to win over Portland Trail Blazers in Western Conference matchup at Moda Center - Best NBA Picks & Predictions

The 2024-25 NBA season continues this Saturday, January 18, with the Houston Rockets facing off against the Portland Trail Blazers in a Western Conference matchup at Moda Center in Portland, OR. In preparation for this game, we analyze the best Rockets vs. Trail Blazers prediction. These teams are concluding their three-game regular-season series, having split the prior two matchups. The Rockets claimed a 116-88 victory as 11.5-point home favorites on November 22, while the Trail Blazers responded with a 104-98 road win the following day. With Houston currently favored at -11.25, it will be interesting to see which team comes out on top in this decisive game. Stay tuned for our NBA picks for this exciting matchup.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Rockets -575 | Trail Blazers +430
• Spread: Rockets -11.25 (-110) | Trail Blazers +11.25 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 223.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Houston will win straight-up is 85%.

Houston vs Portland Stats

Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets ended their five-game winning streak with a 132-127 loss to the Sacramento Kings last Thursday. The Kings shot 50.0% from the field and made 14 three-pointers, while the Rockets shot 52.7% and were led by Jalen Green with 28 points. Green is the team's leading scorer with 21.5 points per game, while Alperen Sengun averages 19.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. Houston scores 114.6 points per 100 possessions and allows 108.5 points in return. With a power ranking of 5, the Rockets are ranked 12th in offense and 5th in defense, with a record of 27-13 this season. Offensively, they shoot 44.93% from the field and 33.75% from three-point range, while defensively allowing 44.98% of field goals and 36.23% of three-pointers. Houston leads in rebounds but ranks low in turnovers. Additionally, the team struggles at the free-throw line.

Portland Trail Blazers Analysis

The Portland Trail Blazers have struggled recently, winning only two of their last nine games. In their recent defeat against the LA Clippers, they faced challenges with their shooting accuracy, committing turnovers, and dealing with injuries to key players like Deni Avdija, Donovan Clingan, and Jerami Grant. With their current power ranking at 28 and ranking 26th for offense, the Trail Blazers have room for improvement in their performance. Despite their challenges, they still have a chance to bounce back and improve their standings. For assistance in analyzing and predicting their upcoming games, consider consulting with the Best NBA Handicappers.

Houston Rockets Favored Over Portland Trail Blazers with Strong Statistical Advantage

The Portland Trail Blazers have a scoring efficiency of 109.0 points per 100 possessions, ranking 27th in the NBA, and they give up 118.0 points per 100 possessions, ranking 26th in the league. Additionally, they are ranked 29th in defensive rebound percentage at 71.9%. Based on their statistical performance, it is likely that the Houston Rockets will secure a victory and cover the spread in this upcoming game. Despite the absence of Jabari Smith Jr., who averages 11.9 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, Houston is expected to outperform Portland in rebounding, as they lead the league in offensive rebound percentage at 30.9% and rank 11th in defensive rebound percentage at 75.9%. Even in the event that Fred VanVleet remains unavailable due to personal reasons, I predict a win for the Houston Rockets.

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