Rockets vs. Cavaliers prediction, odds, pick, spread

We’re back with betting predictions and picks for this upcoming NBA slate as we look at this next cross-conference matchup between two powerhouses in the East and West. The Houston Rockets (29-14) will download on Cleveland Cavaliers (36-8) as the two sides meet in back-to-back games to complete the season series. It’s time to continue our NBA odds series with Rockets-Cavaliers prediction and pick.

The Houston Rockets are currently second in the Western Conference behind the Thunder after defeating Cleveland 109-108 in the first game of this current series. They are now 7-3 in their last 10 games and would make a serious statement in their conference if they are able to knock off the East leaders in back-to-back games.

The Cleveland Cavaliers currently lead the Eastern Conference, but hope to regain one against Houston after dropping their last meeting. They also fell in their last game against Philadelphia 132-129, making it back-to-back losses for the first time this season as they look to bounce back in this one.

It’s Rockets-Cavaliers here NBA oddscourtesy of FanDuel.

NBA odds: Rockets-Cavaliers odds

Houston Rockets: +3.5 (-110)

Moneiline: +138

Cleveland Cavaliers: -3.5 (-110)

Moneilines: -164

Over: 227.5 (-106)

Under: 227.5 (-114)

How to watch Rockets vs. Cavaliers

Time: 7:30 PM ET/ 4:30 PM PT

TV: Space City Home Network, FanDuel Sports Network Ohio, NBA League Pass

*Watch NBA games LIVE with fuboTV (Get Access | Save $30)*

Why the Rockets might cover the spread/win

The Houston Rockets went all out in their last game against Cleveland and while their offense usually leads them to wins, it was their defense that came up big with heavy scoring throughout all four quarters to keep the league’s best team at bay. totally on the attack. Fred VanVleet came up with an extremely efficient shooting night, going 8-15 from the field while shooting 7-12 from three and adding five assists to his total. Jalen Green also added five assists as they moved the ball well as a team.

Alperen Sengun is also playing at a very high level and even though Evan Mobley was out of Cleveland’s lineup during their last meeting, he still managed to put in an effort against defensive stalwart Jarrett Allen. Look for Sengun to be very active passing and rebounding in this game as he gives the Rockets a chance to keep possession after every missed shot. Also keep an eye on Amen Thompson, who could serve as their main defender when they face Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland.

Why the Cavaliers could cover the spread/win

The Cavaliers are experiencing back-to-back losses for the second time this season as they fell to the Rockets and 76ers. Their loss to Philadelphia was pretty stunning since the 76ers were playing with a small lineup and had a seven game losing streak coming in. Despite Donovan Mitchell’s 37 points, the Cavaliers didn’t have much production, and they couldn’t have. a lot on defense to keep Paul George from hanging 30. Without Mobley in their lineup, they are a bit spread out on the defensive end and will need Georges Niang to step up and provide resistance on defense against Houston’s playmakers.

However, the Cavaliers will have a solid game in the paint with Jarrett Allen playing at a career level. He was terrific on both ends of the floor and will give Sengun trouble on the glass all game averaging 10 rebounds per game. He’s also shooting 70% from the field, which ranks him fourth in the NBA as their most reliable presence at the rim. Expect Darius Garland to have a big game in this game as the Rockets lack enough perimeter defenders to effectively stop him.

Final Rockets-Cavaliers Prediction & Pick

While the Cleveland Cavaliers have been building teams throughout the Eastern Conference, this young Rockets team actually matches up very well against the best team in the East, and they could pull off another upset win over them in this one. Alperen Sengun will likely be the best player on the floor aside from Donovan Mitchell, and if he is able to create problems down low for the Cavaliers, the Rockets will certainly be in a solid position to win this game.

However, I think it’s unlikely we’ll see the Cavaliers drop three straight games as I expect them to be much more disciplined in their shot selection in this game. The Cavs are 21-2 at home and 15-8 ATS at home. I like that Cleveland has a bad taste in their mouth after these last two losses, resulting in a convincing win here as they got one back over Houston.

Rockets-Cavaliers final forecast and pick: Cleveland Cavaliers -3.5 (-110)