Houston (17-8) at Oklahoma City (19-5)
- When: Dec 14 2024, 8:30 PM
- Where: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- TV: ABC
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Houston Rockets @ Oklahoma City Thunder
Moneyline
Houston Rockets +205
Oklahoma City Thunder -245
Houston Rockets @ Oklahoma City Thunder
Point Spread
Houston Rockets 6.0 (-110)
Oklahoma City Thunder -6.0 (-110)
Houston Rockets @ Oklahoma City Thunder
Total
Over 216.0 (-115)
Under 216.0 (-105)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Key Players:
Houston: Jalen Green
Oklahoma City: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Team Stats
| Rockets | Thunder | |
| 17-8 | Record | 19-5 |
| 7-5 | Away & Home | 10-2 |
| 7-3 | Last 10 | 8-2 |
| W2 | Streak | W4 |
Last Matchup:
HOU 119-116, December 1st, 2024
Game Preview
The Houston Rockets and Oklahoma City Thunder may not headline as marquee teams in this NBA Cup semifinal, but this matchup offers bettors a sneak peek into the future dominance of the Western Conference. Both teams are surging and boast young, dynamic rosters, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown in Las Vegas on Saturday night.
Thunder’s Depth and Resilience
The Thunder, last season’s surprise No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, are back at the top and proving it wasn’t a fluke. Even without Chet Holmgren, sidelined for over a month with a hip fracture, Oklahoma City’s “next man up” mentality continues to shine. With a deep roster led by MVP-caliber star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder have gone 11-3 without Holmgren, maintaining a 19-5 record and positioning themselves for another top seed.
Gilgeous-Alexander is putting up an impressive 30.2 points (fourth in the NBA) and 6.3 assists per game. His ability to lead this squad has been vital, but the supporting cast, including third-year forward Jalen Williams (21.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 5.0 assists), is stepping up. Meanwhile, Isaiah Hartenstein, filling Holmgren’s shoes, has delivered double-doubles consistently with 11.6 points and 12.8 rebounds per game since debuting on Nov. 20.
The Thunder enter Saturday’s semifinal as the top seed in the West bracket after a 3-1 record in group play and a decisive 118-104 win over the Dallas Mavericks in the quarterfinals. Oklahoma City isn’t here for just the experience—this team is gunning for the trophy.
“It’s always about winning,” said Gilgeous-Alexander. “From playing AAU as a kid to chasing NCAA or NBA titles, it’s about coming out on top. That’s our mindset, and we want to leave Vegas with a win.”
Rockets’ Meteoric Rise
The Houston Rockets are this year’s Cinderella team, echoing last season’s Thunder in their unexpected rise. Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, who once struggled to find their footing, are now leading a squad that’s quickly becoming a force in the West.
Houston sits at 17-8, just behind Oklahoma City, after winning seven of their last 10 games. Green leads the team with 19.2 points per game, while Sengun is averaging 18.8 points and 10.6 rebounds, anchoring a Rockets defense that has emerged as one of the NBA’s toughest units.
The Rockets secured the No. 2 seed in the West knockout bracket with a 3-1 group stage record. Their gritty 91-90 win over the Golden State Warriors in the quarterfinals came down to a controversial loose-ball foul that sent Green to the line for the game-winning free throws. While some questioned the call, the Rockets’ defensive performance solidified their legitimacy as contenders.
“We’re proud of how far we’ve come,” said Rockets coach Ime Udoka. “This game is another chance to prove ourselves against the league’s best defense. We respect the Thunder, but we’re here to win.”
Betting Analysis and Predictions
– Thunder’s Edge: Oklahoma City’s depth and experience make them the favorites, and their defensive prowess creates problems for even the best offenses. With Gilgeous-Alexander in MVP form and Hartenstein dominating the glass, the Thunder’s ability to control the tempo gives them an edge.
– Rockets’ Underdog Value: Houston’s defensive improvements under Udoka cannot be overlooked. They’re 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games and play with a chip on their shoulder. If Green and Sengun click offensively, they’re capable of pushing the Thunder to the limit.
Prediction: Expect a tight battle between two of the league’s top defensive teams. However, the Thunder’s experience and star power should secure the win. Bet on Oklahoma City, and take the over on total points if it’s set above 216.
This semifinal is more than a showcase; it’s a preview of what could become a heated rivalry in the Western Conference for years to come. Don’t miss this pivotal matchup for your NBA Cup bets.
NBA Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Oklahoma City 114-105
Expert Pick: Oklahoma City -6 & Over 216 (-115)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $357
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
