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- What: NBA Cup Game
- When: December 11, 2024
- Who: Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets
- Time: 9:30 p.m. EST
- Where: Toyota Center (Houston, TX)
The Houston Rockets are gearing up for a showdown against the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Cup quarterfinals, and the buzz is palpable.
With the Rockets favored by 2 points, there’s a strong case to be made for them to not only win but also cover the spread. Let’s explain why Houston is the team to back in this matchup.
First, the Rockets have been nothing short of impressive at home, boasting a 9-3 record in their building.
This season, they’ve averaged a whopping 11 more points per game when playing in Houston, showcasing their ability to light up the scoreboard in front of their fans.
The energy in the Toyota Center is electric, and the Rockets are looking to capitalize on that momentum.
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Game Preview (Warriors vs. Rockets)
| Spread |  |  |  |
| Golden State Warriors +2 Points | -115 | -115 | -115 |
| Houston Rockets -2 Points | -105 | -105 | -105 |
Under the guidance of head coach Ime Udoka, the Rockets have developed a defensive focus that has been crucial in forcing turnovers and fueling their offense.
This season, they’ve shown a remarkable 40-point differential in the tournament, indicating their ability to dominate games.
With players like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun stepping up, the Rockets are not just a one-man show; they’ve got depth and versatility that can exploit any weaknesses in the Warriors’ defense.
Now, let’s talk about the Warriors. Sure, they’ve got the dynamic duo of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green back in the lineup, and they’re always a threat.
Fresh off a Clutch Player of the Year award, Curry is shooting an impressive 45.4% from the field and 36.9% from beyond the arc.
His ability to perform in clutch moments is legendary, and Draymond’s defensive prowess adds another layer of complexity to their game.
H-Town, it’s time to show out! 🏆
The #Rockets are hosting the NBA Cup Quarterfinals against the Warriors. A trip to Vegas for the Cup semis is on the line.
See you at Toyota Center on December 11th, 8:30pm tip-off.
Tickets » https://t.co/kpsG42urKh pic.twitter.com/K7IOXIwujl— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) December 4, 2024
The Warriors’ recent victory over the Memphis Grizzlies showcased their balanced attack, but the Rockets are a different beast, especially at home.
Moreover, the Warriors are slight underdogs against the Rockets, which is a curious line given their recent history. They managed to win their last encounter 99-93, but that was without key players.
With their recent form and a solid game plan under Udoka, Houston is primed to not only win but also cover the spread against Golden State.
So, if you’re looking to place a bet, keep an eye on the Rockets as they aim to advance to the semifinals in the NBA Cup tournament.
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Total Points
| Total Points | | | |
| Over 222 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
| Under 222 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
However, the Warriors have struggled against the Rockets historically, and with both teams at full strength, this matchup could tilt in Houston’s favor.
The Warriors’ depth is a double-edged sword. While they have a robust 12-man rotation, allowing them to maintain high energy levels, it also means they can be inconsistent.
Players like Buddy Hield and Moses Moody have stepped up, but can they deliver when it matters most?
With both Curry and Green back, the Warriors’ chances of covering the spread are bolstered by their defensive capabilities. They have limited opponents to an NBA third-worst 33.4% on three-pointers.
However, the Rockets have been formidable at home, and their offensive firepower could easily exploit any lapses in the Warriors’ defense.
Protected the home court ⚡️@Kia || Clutch Plays pic.twitter.com/8ysSeHApXk
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) December 9, 2024
While the Warriors have the star power and experience, the Rockets are riding a wave of confidence and home-court advantage.
The Rockets are currently showcasing their best basketball of the season at home, while the Warriors boast an equal number of wins both at home and on the road.
Historically, the Warriors have had the upper hand against the Rockets, making it a challenging matchup to predict. Both teams rank in the top six defensively in the NBA, combining to allow an average of 215.8 points per game.
Offensively, they struggle as well, ranking in the bottom ten for field goal percentage. I expect scoring to be limited in this matchup, so I recommend betting on the under at 222 points.
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