Utah Jazz (22-20) vs. Houston Rockets (19-21)
Utah Jazz vs. Houston Rockets 1/20/24 – In the world of NBA matchups, the clash between the Utah Jazz and the Houston Rockets on Saturday, January 20, 2024, promises to be an enthralling encounter. The Jazz, standing at a respectable 22-20, are set to take on the Rockets, who have a slightly less impressive record of 19-21, at the Toyota Center. This game not only presents an exciting spectacle for basketball enthusiasts but also offers a wealth of opportunities for those interested in NBA no-cost picks.
Utah Jazz’s performance this season has been marked by their dominant offensive play, averaging 116.8 points per game on 46.8% field goal percentage with 13.2 3-pointers made per game at 35% conversion rate; their 3-point shooting, which averages 13.2 makes at 35.6% conversion, further adds an edge. Unfortunately, their defensive efforts do not match up; with only 7.1 steals and 6 blocks per game (plus 15.4 turnovers per game), leaving plenty of room for improvement in terms of ball security.
Houston Rockets present a very different picture. Averaging 112.7 points per game, which while impressive, falls short of Utah Jazz’s scoring prowess. Their field goal percentage sits close at 46.2% but their 3-point shooting has proven less effective with 35.8% success rate. They excel in rebounding; an average 45-rebound game could prove crucial to controlling game pace whereas their assist-to-turnover ratio hints at needing greater care in ball handling and playmaking.
Utah Jazz vs. Houston Rockets 1/20/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Toyota Center |
| TV: | Space City Home Network |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Lauri Markkanen (PF) vs. Alperen Sengun (C)
Utah Jazz’s Lauri Markkanen has taken his game to new heights this season, establishing himself as the Jazz’s go-to scorer after averaging under 15 points per game the previous two years. The versatile big man is tallying 24 points per contest on efficient shooting splits. He crashes the boards hard as well with 8.8 rebounds per outing. However, Markkanen struggles defending quicker forwards, which the crafty Sengun could exploit.
Houston Rockets’ Center Alperen Sengun is the fulcrum of Houston’s above-average offense, using his advanced post playmaking to create for others. He’s tallying 21.6 points and 4.8 dimes per game while shooting 53% from the field. Sengun doesn’t have the perimeter stroke that Markkanen boasts though, converting just 28% from deep. He also is prone to turning the ball over, coughing it up 2.6 times per contest.
This matchup pits Sengun’s interior savvy against Markkanen’s shooting and athleticism at power forward. Whichever big man gets the upper hand could steer their team to victory on Saturday night.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The current betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but based on the team’s records and trends, it’s likely to be a closely contested matchup.
Utah Jazz Betting Trends
Utah is 5-0 against the spread (ATS) in their last 5 games and 10-12 ATS on the road this season. The totals have gone OVER in 3 of the Jazz’s previous 5 outings. Utah plays at the NBA’s 13th-slowest pace and relies on precise offense, so more often than not they play lower scoring games. The trends point toward the UNDER.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
Houston is 0-5 ATS over their last 5 contests and 6-12 ATS at home. The totals have gone OVER in 3 of the Rockets’ previous 5 matchups. Coach Stephen Silas’ group plays at the NBA’s fastest pace and can light up the scoreboard some nights. However, against a steady Utah squad that excels at limiting transition opportunities, the UNDER looks like a strong play.
Utah Jazz vs. Houston Rockets 1/20/24 Betting Picks
Considering the current form and statistical analysis, the Jazz seem to have an edge in this matchup. Their offensive strength and recent form make them a solid pick. However, the Rockets’ ability to rebound and score can’t be underestimated, especially on their home court.
In terms of betting, the Jazz might be the safer bet, but keep an eye on the spread and total. For prop bets, focusing on individual performances, especially of key players like Markkanen and Sengun, could be profitable. The over/under will largely depend on the Jazz’s offensive consistency and the Rockets’ defensive response.
This prediction is based on current trends and individual team strengths. The Jazz’s offensive firepower and recent form give them a slight advantage over the Rockets, who will likely put up a strong fight but may fall short in the end. Premium expert picks might lean towards the Jazz, but the Rockets’ potential for an upset should not be overlooked.
Free Pick and Prediction: Utah Jazz 118, Houston Rockets 112.