NBA 2025-2026: Houston Rockets vs Los Angeles Clippers Prediction

Houston Rockets

Home Team
81.0%
120.1 pts
VS

Los Angeles Clippers

Away Team
19.0%
108.2 pts

Key Prediction Insights

The Houston Rockets are favored to win against the Los Angeles Clippers with an impressive 81.0% probability. The predicted final score is 120.1 for the Rockets and 108.2 for the Clippers. The expected starting five for the Rockets includes Josh Okogie, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Kevin Durant, and Alperen Şengün. On the Clippers’ side, James Harden, Kris Dunn, Kawhi Leonard, John Collins, and Ivica Zubac are set to start.

Game Analysis

The Houston Rockets have shown solid form recently, winning two of their last three games. They secured commanding victories over the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings, with scores of 117-98 and 121-95, respectively. However, they stumbled against the Dallas Mavericks with a 109-122 loss. The Rockets’ starting lineup boasts high offensive ratings, particularly with Kevin Durant (126.3) and Alperen Şengün (126.2), indicating their capability to score efficiently. Their defense, anchored by Alperen Şengün’s 110.9 rating, is also a critical component in their strategy. In contrast, the Los Angeles Clippers have struggled, losing two out of their last three matchups. They suffered narrow defeats to the Minnesota Timberwolves and Memphis Grizzlies, although they did manage a decisive victory against the Atlanta Hawks, winning 115-92. James Harden stands out with an average of 26.78 points per game and an offensive rating of 120.1, but the team overall has a weaker defensive setup, with John Collins and Kris Dunn both having defensive ratings close to 120.0. This could pose a challenge against the high-scoring Rockets.

Final Prediction

The Houston Rockets appear to have the upper hand due to their recent success and strong offensive capabilities, particularly in their starting lineup. Key to watch will be the performance of Kevin Durant and Alperen Şengün, whose scoring and efficiency could be pivotal. The Clippers will need to tighten their defense to counter the Rockets’ offensive prowess if they hope to upset the prediction.