NBA 2024-2025: Houston Rockets vs Denver Nuggets Prediction

The Houston Rockets enter this matchup riding a wave of momentum, having won their last three games against the Miami Heat, Orlando Magic, and Philadelphia 76ers. Their impressive offensive display was evident in the game against the 76ers, where they put up 144 points. This offensive prowess can be attributed to their strong starting lineup, particularly Jalen Green, who boasts an average of 21.2 points per game. The Rockets' starting five also features a balanced offensive threat with all players having offensive ratings above 108, with Amen Thompson leading at 120.8. Defensively, Alperen Sengun stands out with a defensive rating of 104, providing a solid backbone for the team. Conversely, the Denver Nuggets have faced a couple of setbacks, losing to the Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Lakers, though they did secure a win against the Golden State Warriors. Jamal Murray remains a key offensive player for the Nuggets with an average of 21.3 points per game, complemented by Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon's contributions. Notably, Christian Braun's offensive rating of 131 is a potency the Nuggets will look to capitalize on. However, their defensive ratings average higher, suggesting vulnerabilities that the Rockets might exploit.