The Southwest Division competitors, Houston Rockets (0-1) and San Antonio Spurs (0-1), will compete Saturday evening at the Frost Bank Center. Both clubs started their seasons with defeats. Houston lost to Charlotte 110-105 at home, while San Antonio lost to Dallas 120-109 away.
Among the most youthful teams in the NBA, Houston relies on the maturation and advancement of their young core. Jalen Green’s 28 points guided the team in their opening, although Alperen Sengun’s remarkable effort of 25 points, 18 rebounds, and 5 assists distinguished itself. However, the absence of Steven Adams, a key player known for his defensive prowess, and the potential absence of Dillon Brooks, a reliable scorer, could pose challenges for the team. Fred VanVleet and Jabari Smith Jr. will assume pivotal responsibilities. The Rockets are without Steven Adams and may also be without Dillon Brooks, who is listed as doubtful.
San Antonio harbors significant expectations for its second season under Victor Wembanyama. To bolster its rising star, the Spurs made significant acquisitions, including Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes. Julian Champagnie topped the scoring with 18 points in their first game, while Wembanyama had difficulties with his shooting and concluded with 17 points. Chris Paul had 3 points and 8 assists in his first game. The Spurs are without Devin Vassell.
The Spurs, with their balanced offense, are 4.5 points favored in their home game. Despite Houston securing three victories in four encounters last season, the Spurs’ balanced offense, the Rockets’ youth, and possible exhaustion from consecutive games make the Spurs the more favourable option. We advise a wager on the San Antonio Spurs for victory.