Houston Rockets (25-32) vs. Phoenix Suns (34-24)
Houston Rockets vs. Phoenix Suns 2/29/24 – On Thursday, in an intriguing NBA showdown, the Houston Rockets and Phoenix Suns will collide at Footprint Center. Both teams are looking to improve their standing by working through challenges while capitalizing on stronger records; making for an engaging battle that promises an exhilarating encounter for fans looking for NBA free picks today. The Rockets should come equipped with emerging talents as well as experienced veterans to put up a fight!
The Houston Rockets have struggled on the road this season, evidenced by their 9-17 record against the spread in away games. Their porous defense is giving up 113.1 points per game while allowing opponents to shoot 45.9% from the field. However, their offense is putting up points as well, averaging 41.3 field goals made on 90 attempts (45.9% FG percentage).
Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns are 13-15 against the spread at home this season. The addition of elite scorer Kevin Durant makes Phoenix’s already potent offense (117.5 ppg) even more dangerous. However, they have at times struggled on the defensive end, surrendering 117.5 points while letting opponents shoot 49.6% from the field.
Houston Rockets vs. Phoenix Suns 2/29/24 Game Info
| When: | Thursday, February 29, 2024 at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | AZFamily |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Alperen Sengun (C) vs. Kevin Durant (PF)
Second-year center Alperen Sengun has been a bright spot for the struggling Rockets this season. In 56 starts, he’s averaging an impressive 32.4 minutes per game while putting up 21 points on 45.9% shooting. Additionally, he’s hauling in 9.2 rebounds including 2.8 offensive boards and dishing out 4.9 assists. His versatile offensive game can give any opposing big man headaches.
Meanwhile, veteran Kevin Durant has continued his All-Star production in his first season for Phoenix. Through 51 starts, he’s seeing the floor for 37.1 minutes a night and scoring at an elite clip of 28 points per game on 49.6% from the field. Though not a dominant rebounder (6.7 per game), Durant is an able facilitator, evidenced by his 5.6 assists. His ability to get buckets from all over the court with smooth precision makes him a dynamic go-to scoring weapon few can match up with.
This battle of centers will be a contrast of youth versus experience between Sengun’s burgeoning offense and Durant’s veteran savvy at putting up points efficiently. Their individual matchup could play a pivotal role in determining this exciting game’s outcome.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds yet to be determined, this game presents a fascinating prospect for bettors. Insights and recommendations will hinge on the evolving odds, but the Suns’ stronger record and home-court advantage could position them as favorites.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
Recent trends paint an interesting picture for bettors heading into this matchup. Over their last 5 games, the Rockets are just 2-3 straight up and 2-3 against the spread. On the road this season, they have struggled to cover, going 9-17 ATS away from home. The totals have gone OVER in 2 of their last 5 contests. For Houston home games, the OVER has hit in 12 of the last 30.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
As for Phoenix, they are 3-2 straight up and 3-2 ATS over their previous 5 outings. The Suns have fared relatively well in downtown Phoenix, owning a 13-15 ATS record. However, the totals have gone OVER only 1 time in their last 5 matchups. Yet over a longer stretch at Footprint Center, high-scoring affairs have been commonplace, with 16 of their last 30 home games going OVER the projected total.
Houston Rockets vs. Phoenix Suns 2/29/24 Betting Picks
Given the analysis and betting trends, this game leans towards the Suns, especially with their balanced offense and stronger defensive metrics. However, the Rockets’ ability to surprise should not be underestimated, particularly with their 3-point shooting capability.
In terms of premium picks and parlays the Suns appear to be the safer pick, considering their consistency and home advantage. Prop bets on key player performances, particularly Durant’s scoring and Sengun’s rebounding, could offer value. The over/under will heavily depend on the final betting lines, but the Suns’ offensive efficiency hints at a high-scoring game.
Free Pick and Prediction: Phoenix Suns 120, Houston Rockets 112.