The Houston Rockets will host the Atlanta Hawks on March 25 at the Toyota Center. Houston comes in with a 46-26 record, sitting second in the Western Conference. Atlanta holds a 35-36 record and is currently seventh in the Eastern Conference playoff picture.
Houston recently had its nine-game winning streak snapped by Denver, losing 116-111 on Sunday. Meanwhile, Atlanta is playing well, winning seven of their last nine games. This will be their second matchup of the season after Houston edged Atlanta 100-96 in late January.
Rockets Preview – Focused on Health and Momentum
Houston remains in the race for the second seed in the Western Conference. They sit just one game ahead of Denver, putting added importance on this matchup. Coach Ime Udoka has emphasized staying healthy while maintaining their strong defensive play.
Jalen Green scored 30 points in their recent loss to Denver, continuing his strong season. Alperen Sengun posted a triple-double in that game with 17 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists. The Rockets have relied heavily on these two players as they fight to secure a favorable playoff seed.
Houston’s defense ranks fifth in points allowed, giving up just 109.1 points per game. Their ability to slow down Atlanta’s offense will be key in this matchup.
Hawks Preview – Surging Late in the Season
The Hawks have been one of the hottest teams in the NBA, winning seven of their last nine games. Atlanta is shooting 55.3% from the field during their current three-game winning streak. Their improved shot selection and ball movement have sparked this recent surge.
Trae Young has led the way for Atlanta, scoring 28 points with 12 assists in their win over Philadelphia. Rookie Zaccharie Risacher added 22 points, continuing to provide valuable scoring since the trade deadline. Atlanta’s offense has climbed to fifth in points per game, averaging 117.6.
With Clint Capela sidelined, the Hawks will need Onyeka Okongwu to play a big role in protecting the rim. Okongwu posted 14 points and nine rebounds in their last game and will need to step up again against Houston’s strong interior presence.
Key Players to Watch
Jalen Green (Rockets) – Green’s scoring will be critical for Houston. He has been a consistent threat on offense and can get hot quickly.
Trae Young (Hawks) – Young’s playmaking has helped Atlanta’s offense surge. His ability to score and distribute will play a big role in keeping Atlanta competitive.
Alperen Sengun (Rockets) – Sengun’s ability to control the paint and contribute as a passer makes him a key factor in this game.
Betting Prediction
Houston is the stronger defensive team, which gives them an edge at home. The Rockets have played well at Toyota Center this season, posting a 26-11 home record. Atlanta’s offense has been clicking, but Houston’s ability to limit open shots and win the rebounding battle gives them an advantage.
Expect Houston to bounce back from their loss to Denver and control this game. The Rockets should cover the spread, and the game has potential to push past the projected total.
Pick: Houston Rockets -8.5 | Over 233.5
Enjoy the game!
