Houston (26-12) at Sacramento (20-20)
- When: Jan 16 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
- TV: TNT
Game Preview
Thursday night will feature an exciting Western Conference clash between two of the NBA’s hottest teams as the Houston Rockets visit the Sacramento Kings. This matchup is a rematch of last month’s NBA Cup game, which the Kings won 120-111 on their home court, powered by Domantas Sabonis’ 27 points and De’Aaron Fox’s 22.
Since that December victory, Sacramento has undergone significant changes, including a coaching switch to Doug Christie. The move has sparked a resurgence, with the Kings winning seven of their last nine games. While they fell to Milwaukee 130-115 on Tuesday, they return home for a three-game stretch, boasting an undefeated 4-0 record at Golden 1 Center under Christie’s guidance. Sacramento is eager to solidify its playoff position and potentially win its first postseason series in over two decades.
Houston, meanwhile, is surging with a five-game winning streak and 10 wins in their last 13 outings. The Rockets made a statement with a dominant 128-108 victory over Denver on Wednesday, further solidifying their position as one of the top teams in the Western Conference.
Jalen Green, a local Northern California product, has been the catalyst for Houston’s recent success. Green dropped 34 points in the win over Denver, marking his sixth straight game with 27 or more points. He also had 28 points in the Rockets’ earlier loss to Sacramento. Green’s dynamic scoring makes him a prime candidate for over-point props in this game.
Adding to the Rockets’ intrigue is Amen Thompson, another Northern California native, who has become a defensive force for Houston. In the last five games, Thompson is averaging 16.6 points, 12 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and notable contributions on the defensive end, including steals and blocks. His matchup with Sacramento’s frontcourt will be key.
Sacramento’s strong interior defense, led by Sabonis, will aim to contain Houston’s offensive attack. The Kings’ ability to limit second-chance points could force the Rockets to rely on perimeter shooting, an area where consistency has been an issue for Houston on the road.
Predictions:
Spread: Sacramento (-4) is the pick, as their home-court advantage and recent improvements under Christie should give them the edge in a close game.
Total Points: Take the over 225.5, as both teams boast high-powered offenses that can push the tempo and generate points in transition.
Player Props:
Jalen Green to score over 27.5 points is a strong bet given his current hot streak.
Domantas Sabonis to record over 12.5 rebounds is another solid play, as he will likely dominate the glass.
Final score prediction: Sacramento 118, Houston 112. Expect an entertaining game with playoff-like intensity as the Kings hold off the Rockets to maintain their unbeaten home record under Christie.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
