- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Houston (0-0) at Oklahoma City (0-0)
- When: Oct 21 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- TV: NBC
Houston vs Oklahoma City Preview & Prediction
Spread: Oklahoma City -6.0
Moneyline: Oklahoma City (-260)
Total: 228.0
Oklahoma City Thunder Outlook
The defending champion Thunder begin their title defense on home court Tuesday night, fresh off a historic 68-win season and their first NBA championship. With nearly the entire roster returning, including MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams, Oklahoma City enters the year with unmatched chemistry and continuity.
The night will open with a championship ring ceremony, but coach Mark Daigneault knows that emotion can be both motivation and distraction. Expect the Thunder to lean on their explosive offense and deep rotation to set the tone early. Oklahoma City covered in both home games against Houston last season and will look to ride that same edge to start 1-0.
Houston Rockets Outlook
The Rockets come into this season reloaded and ready to challenge the West’s elite after last year’s playoff return. The headline move, of course, was the blockbuster addition of Kevin Durant, returning to Oklahoma City for the first time since his days as the franchise’s original superstar. Durant joins a towering Houston lineup featuring Alperen Sengun, Steven Adams, Jabari Smith Jr., and rookie Amen Thompson — creating one of the biggest starting fives in NBA history.
Coach Ime Udoka’s strategy is clear: dominate the paint and force OKC to play physical. Houston’s size and rebounding could cause problems for the Thunder’s smaller rotation, but they’ll need crisp perimeter shooting to stay competitive.
NBA Prediction & Betting Angle
This matchup sets the stage for an emotional and high-scoring opener. Oklahoma City’s cohesion and depth give them the upper hand, especially in a charged home environment. The Rockets’ size will keep things close early, but the Thunder’s pace and shot-making should take over late.
Final Score: Thunder 120, Rockets 111
Lean: Oklahoma City -6.0
Total: Over 228.0
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
