Toronto-raptors vs Houston Rockets Picks and Predictions December 22nd 2024

Rockets Aim to Extend Raptors’ Skid to Seven Games

The Houston Rockets look to capitalize on their recent momentum as they visit the Toronto Raptors, who are desperate to snap a six-game losing streak.

Raptors Struggling to Close Games

The Toronto Raptors (10-18) have been competitive in their last two games but struggled to finish strong. On Monday, they fell 122-121 to the Chicago Bulls and followed that with a 101-94 loss to the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday after squandering a 10-point third-quarter lead.

The Raptors fielded their youngest starting lineup in franchise history against Brooklyn, averaging just 22 years and 187 days old. Their inexperience showed, particularly in the fourth quarter, where they were outscored 31-18.

Scottie Barnes, returning from a sprained ankle, scored 16 points but managed just two points in the fourth quarter while committing two turnovers and three fouls.

“We just gave up more points than every other quarter,” Barnes said. “That’s the quarter that we really need to lock in and get stops.”

Toronto’s offense stagnated late, shooting just 36.8 percent in the final period, including a dismal 1-for-10 from beyond the arc.

Coach Darko Rajakovic emphasized the importance of learning to close games, especially for the younger players.

“We missed some open shots, but we got stagnant,” Rajakovic said. “A lot of learning for our young guys on how to close games.”

The Raptors will need to regain their offensive rhythm and defensive discipline to halt their losing streak.

Rockets Riding Offensive Momentum

The Houston Rockets (14-12) are on a roll, winning three of their last four games, including a dominant 133-113 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday. The Rockets shot a season-high 57.5 percent from the field and 43.6 percent from 3-point range in the win.

Jalen Green led the Rockets with 34 points, hitting 13 of his 22 shots. The team also saw strong performances from Fred VanVleet, who contributed 13 points and nine assists, and Dillon Brooks, who scored 26 points.

“Defense to offense is always a good formula for us,” Rockets coach Ime Udoka said. “Playing fast, scoring in transition, and sharing the ball made the difference.”

Houston recorded 34 assists and 28 fast-break points while forcing 12 Pelicans turnovers, converting them into 19 points.

Brooks praised the team’s unselfishness and confidence:

“We’re trusting our teammates every night,” Brooks said. “Even when someone’s having an off night, we’re finding good shots and playing together.”

The Rockets are 12-0 when shooting 45 percent or better this season, a trend they’ll aim to continue against the Raptors.

Join now for exclusive updates—register here!

Key Matchup

This game pits the Rockets’ high-powered offense against a Raptors team that has struggled defensively in critical moments. Toronto must contain Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks while improving their own offensive execution late in the game.

The Raptors will also need leadership from Scottie Barnes and more production from their younger players as they await the return of Jakob Poeltl and RJ Barrett. Meanwhile, Houston will look to maintain their fast-paced, unselfish play to extend Toronto’s skid to seven games.