La Clippers vs Houston Rockets Picks and Predictions December 8th 2024

Rockets Look to End California Trip on a High Note Against Clippers

The Houston Rockets (10-8) will face the Los Angeles Clippers (11-9) on Sunday in Inglewood, Calif., as they seek to avoid a winless California road trip. After losing back-to-back games to the Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors, the Rockets aim to rediscover the form that saw them win 10 of their previous 12 games.

Rockets’ Struggles on the Road

Houston’s recent losses have been marked by a lack of offensive rhythm and discipline. The Rockets fell 120-111 to the Kings in a game that saw head coach Ime Udoka and center Alperen Sengun ejected, followed by a season-low scoring output in a 99-93 loss to the Warriors.

Udoka didn’t mince words after the Warriors game, calling it “one of our softest games since I’ve been here.”

Key Players for Houston

• Jalen Green: The team’s leading scorer (19.0 PPG) will need to step up to energize Houston’s offense.
• Alperen Sengun: Averaging 18.9 points and 10.6 rebounds, Sengun’s presence in the paint will be vital against the Clippers’ frontcourt.
• Fred VanVleet: The veteran guard, who scored 13 points against Golden State, must provide leadership and shot-making to counter Los Angeles’ defense.

Challenges for Houston

Shooting has been a significant issue, with the Rockets hitting just 37.6% from the field against the Warriors. Houston will also need to tighten up defensively to avoid the mistakes that have plagued them on this trip.

Clippers Seek Redemption After Blowout Loss

The Clippers are coming off a crushing 108-80 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, which snapped their nine-game home winning streak. Los Angeles played without Kawhi Leonard (knee) and leading scorer Norman Powell, who was rested after returning from a hamstring injury.

Bones Hyland was a bright spot, leading the Clippers with a season-high 18 points in 23 minutes. However, James Harden struggled mightily, shooting 1-of-10 from the field and finishing with a season-low five points.

Key Players for Los Angeles

• James Harden: Averaging 21.6 points per game, Harden will need a bounce-back performance to lead the Clippers’ offense.
• Bones Hyland: After a strong showing against Minnesota, Hyland could play a bigger role with multiple players sidelined.
• Paul George: Consistent scoring and defensive leadership from George will be crucial against the Rockets’ dynamic backcourt.

Injury Concerns

The Clippers continue to deal with injuries to key players, including Leonard, Powell, and Terance Mann. Their availability remains uncertain, adding pressure on Los Angeles’ remaining core to deliver.

Head-to-Head History

The Rockets and Clippers met twice in mid-November, with Houston winning both games decisively, 111-103 and 125-104. Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. starred in those matchups, with Smith notching a season-high 28 points and 11 rebounds in the second game.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Jalen Green vs. James Harden: The young star faces off against the veteran playmaker in a battle of dynamic guards.
• Alperen Sengun vs. Ivica Zubac: Sengun’s ability to dominate in the post will be critical against Zubac’s size and physicality.
• Houston’s Perimeter Defense vs. Clippers’ Shooters: The Rockets must contain Los Angeles’ 3-point threats, particularly if Harden finds his rhythm.

A comprehensive analysis of Victor Wembanyama's prop bets, odds, and predictions

What’s at Stake?

For Houston, Sunday’s game is a chance to salvage their road trip and build momentum heading into their NBA Cup quarterfinal matchup against Golden State on Wednesday.

For the Clippers, the contest offers an opportunity to bounce back from a humiliating loss and rediscover the form that made them dominant at home.

Fans can expect an intense game as both teams look to address their shortcomings and find their footing in the competitive Western Conference.