Phoenix (30-35) at Houston (40-25)
- When: Mar 12 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Toyota Center, Houston, TX, USA
- TV: SCHN
NBA Betting Preview: Houston Rockets vs. Phoenix Suns
Spread: Houston -4.5 | Total: 229.5
Houston Rockets Outlook
The Houston Rockets look to extend their winning streak to four games when they continue their six-game homestand against the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday night. Despite dealing with key injuries, Houston has found ways to adapt, particularly in Monday’s 97-84 win over Orlando.
With Fred VanVleet and Amen Thompson sidelined due to ankle injuries, the Rockets have had to shuffle their rotations and find new playmakers. Jalen Green stepped up, dishing out a game-high eight assists, marking his third game in nine contests with at least that many. Aaron Holiday and Alperen Sengun also contributed as secondary playmakers.
VanVleet, who has been out since February 1, is closer to returning, while Thompson is expected to miss up to two weeks. In their absence, Jabari Smith Jr. stepped up big-time, scoring 20 points and hitting five three-pointers. It was his first 20-point effort since December 23, showcasing his developing versatility.
Coach Ime Udoka emphasized the value of Smith’s size and shooting ability, particularly against defensive mismatches.
“Jabari can thrive in different lineups—whether we go big or small,” Udoka said. “His ability to attack, stretch the floor, and take the right shots is key for us moving forward.”
Betting Trends & Predictions – Houston
Rockets are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games
Houston has won four of the last five meetings vs. Phoenix
The Under has hit in six of Houston’s last eight games
Phoenix Suns Outlook
The Phoenix Suns head to Houston on the final stop of their four-game road trip, hoping to snap out of their post-All-Star break slump. Phoenix fell 120-118 to Memphis on Monday, marking their seventh loss in 11 games since the break.
The Suns have been inconsistent all season, struggling to close out tight games. Against the Grizzlies, they missed four of their final five three-point attempts in the last 61 seconds. Coach Mike Budenholzer has stressed the need for better execution in clutch moments.
“We’ve lost too many close games,” Budenholzer said. “It’s about reducing mistakes and forcing opponents into tough situations. We have to clean up the little details.”
Phoenix was expected to be a title contender, but after going 6-14 in their last 20 games, those expectations have faded considerably. The team’s chemistry issues and lack of defensive consistency have been glaring.
However, Monday’s loss to Memphis did show some fight, as tensions ran high between the two teams. That competitive edge is something Budenholzer believes could help reignite the team heading into the final stretch of the season.
“We need to fight,” Budenholzer said. “We need to stay together, embrace that competitive fire, and turn these games into wins.”
Betting Trends & Predictions – Phoenix
Suns are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games
Phoenix is 2-5 SU in its last seven road games
The Over has hit in five of the Suns’ last seven games
Betting Prediction
Houston has been stronger at home, while Phoenix continues to struggle on the road and fall short in crunch time. Injuries to VanVleet and Thompson make things trickier for the Rockets, but their ability to adapt, especially defensively, gives them an edge.
Best Bet: Houston -4.5 – The Rockets have been more consistent at home and should capitalize on Phoenix’s defensive lapses.
Total Lean: Under 229.5 – The Rockets’ defense has stepped up lately, and Phoenix has struggled to execute late in games.
Expect Houston’s defense and rebounding edge to control the pace and frustrate Phoenix’s offense in what should be a hard-fought game.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
