Los Angeles Clippers vs Houston Rockets Betting Pick, Predictions, Odds & Lines
The Clippers will try to move a step closer to securing the 3rd spot in the West as they visit the Rockets tonight. Kahwi and co are only a game ahead of the Nuggets who hold the tiebreaker so they still can’t afford to relax. The Clips are on a decent run at the moment having lost only once in the last 5 games. Overall, they’re 47-23 SU and 39-30-1 ATS. The Rockets are moving in a completely opposite direction and currently hold the worst record in the league. They’re 16-54 for the season and 26-44 against the spread. Currently, Houston is on a 7-game losing streak. Also, they’ve won only twice in the last 15 games. However, the Rockets have been putting a bit off a fight lately and have covered in four straight games. Tonight’s game is the third meeting between the two this season. The Clippers won both previous games.
Los Angeles Clippers vs Houston Rockets Betting Odds & Line Movement
The Clippers are clear favorites in this NBA BETTING matchup and it’s reflected by the -11.5 line. The total for tonight’s game is set at 226.5.
Notes On The Los Angeles Clippers
Ever since Kahwi Leonard returned to the lineup, the Clippers look like contenders again. Their last three wins were all blowout with an average margin of 22points. And, those wins came against decent opposition in the Lakers, Raptors, and Hornets. The Clips have been particularly impressive on the defensive end. Coach Lue has tightened the things up in that department just in time for the playoffs. In their last 5 games, the Clippers have allowed only 97.2 points per contest. They now rank 4th in the league in total points allowed. Last night they notched another convincing win, beating the Hornets 113-90. Paul George led the scoring with 20 points and also had 10 rebounds and 6 assists. Reggie Jackson added 19 from the bench. Kahwi Leonard was quiet for his standards with only 16 points on 9 shots.
Long-term absentees, Serge Ibaka and Amir Coffey, remain out for the Clippers. It’s also possible that coach Lue will rest George and Leonard.
Notes On The Houston Rockets
The Rockets are, without a doubt, the worst team in the NBA this season. Truth be told, injuries have followed them the whole season, but they have been in clear tanking mode ever since the Harden trade. They have now won only 5 times in the last 49 games. Their main goal lately was to give their young players some game time to mature and develop. However, they do put up a good fight from time to time. Two nights ago, they almost surprised the Lakers on the road losing by only two points, 124-122. Kelly Olynik was a standout performer with 24 points, 6 rebounds, and 8 assists. Armony Brooks scored 24 off the bench while Kenyon Martin Jr. continued with decent performances with 20 points and 10 boards.
Houston’s injury list is long and it would be easier to name the available players. House, Wood, Porter Jr., Wilson, Brown, Bradley, Gordon, and Nwaba are all expected to miss out. Wall and Exum are out for the season.
Los Angeles Clippers vs Houston Rockets Betting Pick & Prediction: The Clippers -11.5
The Clippers will look to secure the 3rd spot and can’t afford a slip-up. Even if Leonard and George sit out, they’re still too strong for the depleted Rockets.
