Houston Rockets vs Philadelphia-76ers Picks and Predictions March 17th 2025

Rockets Rising, 76ers Falling: NBA Championship Paths Diverge

The red-hot Houston Rockets, winners of six straight games, are set to capitalize on facing an undermanned Philadelphia 76ers squad on Monday night. Houston (43-25) has surged into a tie with the Denver Nuggets for the second seed in the competitive Western Conference standings, positioning themselves as legitimate contenders for the NBA Championship.

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Dynamic Duo: Green and Sengun

Leading Houston’s playoff-bound momentum is the dynamic duo of Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun. Green, the team’s NBA scoring leader averaging 21.3 points per game, dropped 28 points in their recent win over the Bulls. Sengun, an emerging NBA rebounds leader candidate, posted a dominant 24-point, 15-rebound performance. Rockets coach Ime Udoka praised their versatility, emphasizing how crucial balanced scoring from players like Dillon Brooks and Jabari Smith complements their defensive prowess.

Defensive Dominance

The Rockets’ defensive strength has been evident, ranking fourth in fewest points allowed per game (108.7), fourth in opponent shooting percentage (45.4%), and leading the league in rebounding differential. With standout performances across their lineup, including candidates for NBA Defensive Player of the Year and NBA Most Improved Player awards, Houston is showcasing its depth heading into the playoffs

Struggles Mount for 76ers

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers’ season is heading south. Projected preseason as contenders in the Eastern Conference and the Atlantic Division, they’ve instead stumbled through an injury-plagued year and currently sit at 23-44, likely missing the playoffs for the first time since 2017.

Bright Spots Amidst Difficulty

Despite their challenges, the 76ers found brief solace in a 130-125 road win against the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, highlighting strong performances from newly acquired Quentin Grimes and recent addition Jalen Hood-Schifino. Grimes, stepping up in the absence of Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and Kelly Oubre Jr., has emerged as the team’s temporary NBA scoring leader with nearly 20 points per game since his arrival. Hood-Schifino’s career-high 19 points, along with valuable contributions from Jeff Dowtin Jr., Guerschon Yabusele, and recent signee Oshae Brissett, demonstrate resilience despite their position.

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Coach Nurse’s Optimism

Coach Nick Nurse remains hopeful, emphasizing the team’s fighting spirit even amidst a tough season. However, Philadelphia’s challenges in the Central, Southeast, and Northwest Divisions throughout the year have left them far behind in the playoff hunt.

Rockets Aim for Season Sweep

Houston, after defeating Philadelphia earlier this season, looks poised to complete their first season sweep over the Sixers since 2016-17, continuing their strong push toward NBA playoff contention and possibly impacting players’ bids for NBA MVP, NBA 6th Man of the Year, and NBA Blocks Leader awards as the regular season winds down.

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With contrasting paths, the Rockets’ rise in the Western Conference’s competitive Pacific and Southwest Divisions starkly contrasts Philadelphia’s struggles in the Eastern Conference, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup reflective of their opposing trajectories.