The upcoming NBA matchup between the Memphis Grizzlies and Houston Rockets is set to unfold on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET from the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. The Houston Rockets currently lead the season series 1-0, having previously defeated Memphis 124-109 on November 5.
Recently, the Memphis Grizzlies (18-25) faced a tough loss against the New Orleans Pelicans, succumbing 133-127 and failing to cover as a 5-point favorite. Despite Jaren Jackson Jr.’s impressive performance, which included 26 points and 12 rebounds, Memphis struggled defensively, allowing three Pelicans players to score over 24 points and losing the battle in the paint, which they were outscored 62-48.
In contrast, the Houston Rockets (27-16) are coming off a win against the Detroit Pistons, where they triumphed 111-104, securing their position as a 4-point road underdog. Kevin Durant led the Rockets with a stellar performance, scoring 32 points, while Houston’s defense restricted Detroit to a mere 22% from beyond the arc.
When it comes to the odds, BetMGM Sportsbook has set the moneyline at Grizzlies +360 and Rockets -475. Against the spread, Memphis is at +9.5, while Houston is favored at -9.5. The Over/Under is placed at 224.5 points.
In terms of injuries, Memphis will be missing several key players, including Santi Aldama (knee), Zach Edey (ankle), Ty Jerome (calf), Ja Morant (elbow), and Scotty Pippen Jr. (toe). For the Rockets, Steven Adams is out with an ankle injury, while Aaron Holiday is listed as probable, and Fred VanVleet is out due to a knee issue.
Given the current form and health of both teams, expert predictions favor the Rockets winning 112 to 100. Betting on the Rockets at -9.5 seems to be a safer choice due to their recent performance, which includes covering the spread in 3 of their last 5 games. The Grizzlies, conversely, have only managed to cover the spread once in their last 5 outings.
Additionally, considering Houston’s elite defense, which ranks fourth in opponent points allowed per game, there is a lean towards the Under at 224.5 points, especially with Memphis’s struggles on offense and injury woes.
As this matchup approaches, basketball fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close watch on how both teams adapt and perform, providing an engaging evening of competitive basketball.