Oklahoma City Thunder (13-6) vs. Houston Rockets (8-9)
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Houston Rockets 12/6/23 – The Oklahoma City Thunder take on the Houston Rockets tonight in an exciting Western Conference matchup. This game at the Toyota Center, is a much-anticipated clash in the league. With premium predictions favoring the road team, the Thunder look to continue their impressive play against a scrappy Rockets squad hungry for a big home win.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have surprised many with their stellar start, led by early MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. SGA is putting up nearly 30 points per game while excelling as a playmaker and defender. With a balanced attack featuring scorers like Lu Dort and Jalen Williams, Oklahoma City boasts a top-10 offense. However, rebounding has been an occasional issue, an area the Rockets may look to exploit.
Meanwhile, Houston Rockets is anchored by an emerging star of their own in big man Alperen Sengun. The Turkish center is averaging 21 points, 9.2 rebounds and 5.5 assists per contest. With Kevin Porter Jr. adding scoring punch in the backcourt, the Rockets can fill it up, but struggle to get stops. Their defense ranks in the bottom third of the league in numerous categories. Containing SGA and the Thunder will be a challenge.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Houston Rockets 12/6/23 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Toyota Center |
| TV: | |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG) vs. Alperen Sengun (C)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has taken a monumental leap this season, inserting himself into the elite guard conversation. SGA is averaging nearly 30 points and 6 assists while shooting over 50% from the field. His two-way brilliance has spearheaded the Thunder’s shockingly strong start. However, he battled foul trouble last game and can occasionally be turnover prone. Against a scrappy Houston defense, limiting mistakes will be key.
Meanwhile, Alperen Sengun continues to display tremendous potential as a playmaking big man. His scoring, rebounding and passing numbers show a uniquely well-rounded skill set. Additionally, the second-year center shoots 83% from the stripe, keeping defenses honest. While foul trouble has hindered him as well, if Sengun stays on the floor he can give the plodding Thunder frontcourt fits with his offensive versatility. His battle with Aleksej Pokusevski will be must-watch.
With Gilgeous-Alexander’s speed and shot creating going up against Sengun’s size and vision, this matchup of young stars could determine the outcome. SGA must exploit Sengun laterally in space, while Sengun should pound the ball inside. Whichever budding superstar gets the better of this battle will put their team in position to win.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Oklahoma City Thunder -114, Total Odds: 225.5
The betting odds slightly favor the Oklahoma City Thunder with a -1 point spread and a moneyline of -114. The total points set at 225.5 indicate expectations of a high-scoring game.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
The Thunder have been an excellent bet this year, covering the spread in eight of their last 10 while going 8-2 straight up over that span. They are also 5-0-1 against the spread on the road, indicating their success travels. However, Oklahoma City has struggled with Houston of late, going just 2-4 straight up and 2-4 against the spread over the previous six meetings.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
Despite their losing record, the Rockets have actually covered in 10 of their last 14 contests, showcasing their ability to outperform expectations. They’ve also dominated the Thunder at home, going 8-0 straight up in their last eight home games and 8-1 straight up against OKC specifically. The total has gone under in six of the last eight meetings as well, suggesting lower scoring affairs.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Houston Rockets 12/6/23 Betting Picks
Considering the stats and trends, the Thunder seem to have the edge, especially with their recent form and ATS record. However, the Rockets’ strong home performance and rebounding ability cannot be underestimated.
The recommendation would be on the Thunder to cover the spread, given their overall performance and scoring efficiency. The total points are likely to go OVER, considering both teams’ offensive capabilities.
The Rockets show potential, especially in rebounding and home games, the Thunder’s overall strength and consistency make them the better pick. This game is a prime candidate for free NBA parlay picks, offering a great opportunity to witness strategic play and scoring prowess.
Free Pick & Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder 117, Houston Rockets 112