Houston Rockets vs Phoenix-suns Picks and Predictions February 12th 2025

Rockets Pursue Defensive Improvement vs. Suns

The Houston Rockets aim to strengthen their defense and build momentum before the All-Star break when they host the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday night.

Can Houston Fix Its Defensive Issues?

For much of the season, Houston ranked among the NBA’s best defensive teams, trailing only Oklahoma City in defensive rating. However, the Rockets have slipped to fourth in that category and struggled through a six-game losing streak before bouncing back with a win over the Toronto Raptors on Sunday.

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Injuries have played a role in the defensive decline, particularly the absence of forward Jabari Smith Jr. (hand), who last played on Jan. 1. Guard Fred VanVleet (ankle) also remains out, and All-Star center Alperen Sengun (back) is a game-time decision after leaving Sunday’s game early.

“Certain guys are always on point with (defensive communication), others need to get up to speed,” Rockets coach Ime Udoka said. “The lack of practice time has hurt our communication, but we’ll get back to where we were earlier in the year.”

Houston ranked 17th in defensive rating in January and currently sits at 15th this month. The Rockets are looking to restore their defensive identity as they continue their three-game homestand.

Suns Looking to Snap Out of Slump

Phoenix (29-30) has had an underwhelming season and fell under .500 with a 119-112 home loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday. The defeat marked the Suns’ fifth loss in six games, keeping them in the thick of the Western Conference play-in race.

Trade deadline rumors swirled around Kevin Durant, with reports that Phoenix explored potential deals before ultimately keeping him. Durant became just the eighth player in NBA history to surpass 30,000 career points on Tuesday, but his 34-point performance wasn’t enough to prevent another Suns loss.

“A true honor to be in the same category as those players who helped shape the game,” Durant said of reaching the milestone.

Suns coach Mike Budenholzer emphasized that the team needs to focus on the fundamentals to turn things around.

Can the Rockets Lock Down on Defense, or Will the Suns Get Back on Track?

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“I always start with us being good defensively,” Budenholzer said. “We’ve got to finish possessions, be better on the boards, and run with better spacing.”

Key Matchups and Playoff Implications

Both teams have plenty to play for, with Houston trying to regain its defensive form and Phoenix seeking consistency in a crowded Western Conference playoff race.

Will the Rockets tighten up defensively at home, or can the Suns break out of their slump?