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- What: Emirates NBA Cup Game
- When: December 3, 2024
- Who: Houston Rockets vs. Sacramento Kings
- Time: 10:00 p.m. EST
- Where: Golden 1 Center (Sacramento, CA)
Get ready for an exciting NBA Cup clash on Tuesday when the Houston Rockets play the Sacramento Kings at the Golden 1 Center.
The Rockets have won five of their last six games, while the Kings have struggled, losing six of their previous seven.
Both teams are fairly close offensively, but Houston has the upper hand in this matchup, thanks to their impressive shooting, converting over 44 percent of their attempts.
The Rockets excel at ball movement and are among the top rebounding teams. They average more than 14 offensive boards per game, which translates to more scoring opportunities.
Before we examine our picks, be sure to check out the best NBA Basketball Betting Sites.
Game Preview (Rockets vs. Kings)
Houston is on a roll, which can be attributed to the stellar play of Alperen Sengun, who is averaging 18.8 points and 10.9 rebounds this season.
| Spread |  |  |  |
| Houston Rockets -1.5 Points | -115 | -115 | -115 |
| Sacramento Kings +1.5 Points | -105 | -105 | -105 |
First off, the Rockets have been lighting it up offensively, scoring an impressive 52.3 points per game in the paint. This is crucial against a Kings defense that has been struggling to contain opposing teams.
While Sengun is a key part of that offensive strategy, the Rockets’ overall offensive depth means that he may not need to carry the load as much in this matchup.
With players like Jalen Green and Kevin Porter Jr. also contributing significantly, Sengun’s numbers could take a hit as the scoring is spread around.
𝐀𝐥𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐧: 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 🤩
Got a nice ring to it 😏 pic.twitter.com/1YNie93emm
— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) December 2, 2024
Now, let’s talk about the Kings. De’Aaron Fox is leading the charge for Sacramento with a solid 27.5 points per game, but the Kings have been inconsistent, especially at home.
This inconsistency could lead to a game where the Rockets dominate, potentially limiting Sengun’s opportunities to rack up stats.
Moreover, the momentum is clearly on Houston’s side. They’ve been playing with confidence, and with the Kings’ recent struggles, it’s likely that the Rockets will cover the 1.5-point spread.
I would bet on the Rockets to cover this 1.5-point spread at -115 odds at BetUS.
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Total Points
I was torn over which way to lean with this total, but I’ve decided to go with the over. The main factor for me is the fast-paced style of play that Houston employs.
| Total Points | | | |
| Over 225 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
| Under 225 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
They rank fifth in terms of tempo, averaging 103.1 possessions per game, while Sacramento sits in the middle at 15th with 100.8 possessions per game.
Moreover, both teams excel offensively. Sacramento stands out as the stronger offensive team, ranked 11th in offensive efficiency with 111.8 points per 100 possessions.
Meanwhile, Houston ranks 20th, scoring 109.1 points per 100 possessions. I believe both teams will surpass the 110-point threshold, which should be sufficient to push the total over the line at 225 points.
Defensively, the Rockets have been surprisingly solid, allowing only 106.3 points per game. This gives them a significant edge over the Kings, who have struggled to find their rhythm.
‘Lik got UP on this slam! 😱
Dunk of the Month presented by @FlySMF pic.twitter.com/JGBERHhL1v
— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) December 2, 2024
New addition DeMar DeRozan has been able to score with ease, averaging 22.9 points per game. However, the Kings have not figured out the best way to use him along with Fox and Sabonis.
The Kings have had their struggles on the defensive end of the court as well. Their recent performances have raised eyebrows, and their defense has been leaky, allowing 114.2 points per game.
This one feels like it will be a high-scoring game with the way these offenses have started the season. I would bet Over 225 Points in this one at -110 odds.
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