On Friday night, the Portland Trail Blazers will square off against the Houston Rockets in an exciting NBA matchup at the Toyota Center. The game is set to tip-off at 5 p.m. and will be broadcasted on Rip City Radio (KPOJ 620 AM), with television coverage available on KUNP and NBA TV. Fans seeking to stream the game can do so via BlazerVision for an annual fee of $120.
As of now, the Blazers hold a record of 6-5, while the Rockets boast a strong 7-3 season start. Betting odds show the Blazers at -340 on the moneyline, with the Rockets at +270. The spread is set at Houston -7.5, with an over/under of 236.5 points.
This matchup is the fourth in a five-game road trip for the Blazers, who have faced tough competition, including games against Miami, Orlando, and New Orleans. After beginning the trip with two narrow losses, the Blazers found their rhythm with a 125-117 victory over the Pelicans, thanks in part to stellar performances from Shaedon Sharpe, who scored 35 points, and Deni Avdija, who added 32 points. Avdija has recently hit a scoring streak, achieving at least 25 points in five consecutive games.
Jrue Holiday has also been a key player for Portland, contributing with 187 points, 93 assists, and 17 steals so far this season, making him one of only three NBA players to reach similar benchmarks. He ranks fifth in the league for assists, averaging 8.5 per game.
On the other hand, the Rockets are enjoying a successful stretch, winning seven of their last eight games. They secured a dominant 135-112 victory against the Washington Wizards in their last outing, led by Kevin Durant’s 23 points and Alperen Sengun’s impressive line of 16 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists. Houston is currently 3-1 at home and looking to build on their winning momentum.
Both teams are competing in this year’s NBA Cup, with the Blazers currently 1-0 in West Group C after defeating Denver, while the Rockets are looking to bounce back from a loss against San Antonio.
In terms of player availability, the Blazers will be without Scoot Henderson, Damian Lillard, Matisse Thybulle, and Blake Wesley due to injuries. Houston will also miss Dorian Finney-Smith and Fred VanVleet.
Following the matchup in Houston, the Blazers will continue their road trip by visiting the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday at 4:30 p.m. This game promises to be an intriguing battle as both teams strive to strengthen their standings in the league.