Our Suns vs. Rockets predictions build on Houston’s strong home results and Phoenix’s injury problems. Booker is out, which limits the Suns on offense, and Houston enters with advantages in defense and rebounding. These conditions shape our spread, total, and prop picks for this Phoenix vs. Houston matchup.
*Remember, sports betting is unpredictable, and these are suggestions based on game analysis.
Suns vs. Rockets NBA Game Overview
The Phoenix Suns, ranked 7th in the Western Conference, face a formidable Houston Rockets team in Houston. While the Suns have a strong 15-7 record Against The Spread (ATS), they’re significantly weakened without star player Devin Booker. His absence, along with Jalen Green’s ongoing injury, substantially dims Phoenix’s offensive capability against a robust Houston defense.
The Rockets, ranked 3rd in the West, thrive at home with a 14-5 record. They lead the NBA in rebounding and are exceptional defensively, ranked 2nd in opponent points per game. However, they are also dealing with injuries, including Fred VanVleet being out for the season, and recent absences of Tari Eason (oblique strain) and Dorian Finney-Smith (ankle surgery).
Kevin Durant, acquired from the Suns, serves as a major offensive force, poised to exploit Phoenix’s vulnerabilities. Historically, Houston has the upper hand, winning 4 of the last 5 head-to-head matchups.
Rockets to Cover the Spread -11.5
The Rockets covering a spread of -11.5 is supported by their dominant home performance and Phoenix’s injury woes. Without Booker, Phoenix lacks crucial scoring, challenging them to compete with a Houston team excelling in defense and rebounding. This gives the Rockets the edge in maintaining a cover on the spread.
Under 223.5 Total Points
This total suits both teams’ defensive strengths. Houston’s ability to limit opponent scoring, combined with Phoenix’s reduced offensive output, points toward a lower game total. The conditions favor a controlled, slower game.
Alperen Şengün Under 6.5 Assists
Alperen Şengün under 6.5 assists is a sensible prop bet, given the Rockets’ emphasis on team play and rebounding. With Fred VanVleet out, Şengün may focus more on scoring and rebounding than playmaking. Phoenix’s defensive strategy could also limit his assist opportunities.
Kevin Durant Over 1.5 Threes
Durant’s role gives him steady three-point volume. Against his former team, he is positioned to take open shots from deep as Houston adjusts to roster changes. The matchup supports a solid chance to clear 1.5 made threes.