Houston Rockets – Los Angeles Clippers: KD vs Kawhi – Episode 2
The Rockets and Clippers meet for the second night in a row after Houston’s narrow win last night (102-95). Different targets, same bite. Houston is chasing the title. L.A., after recent moves, probably isn’t expecting much — but they’re not tanking. Expect another competitive game.
Houston Rockets: consolidating third spot 
After a few awkward games, Houston have won 5 of their last 7 — enough to keep pace with the West’s heavy hitters and, with yesterday’s win over the Clippers, to move ahead of Denver for the first time in ages. The 112-106 victory over the Thunder three days ago should have Ime Udoka’s group moving in the right direction.
For this back-to-back with the Clippers the Rockets should be close to full strength, aside from the season-outs Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet. The main scouting focus tonight will be stopping Kawhi Leonard — he’s having one of his best offensive seasons.
INJURY REPORT : Steven Adams (OUT)
Los Angeles Clippers: steady the nerves before the break 
The Clippers’ season flipped after the trade deadline with James Harden and Ivica Zubac arriving. Where they once hoped to ruffle feathers in the playoffs, the mandate now is simple: win as many games as possible and avoid handing a lottery pick to the Thunder as part of the Paul George – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander deal.
Ty Lue’s side did what’s needed vs the Kings (114-111) and then delivered a proper showing at Minnesota (115-96). Kawhi’s still the guy — 41 points on 14/30 against the Wolves, and that elite team defense on top of it. If the Clips want revenge and to leave Texas with something before the All-Star break, Kawhi will have to do it again.
INJURY REPORT : Darius Garland (OUT)
NBA Pick Houston Rockets vs Los Angeles Clippers
Clippers don’t lose OR lose by 9 points or fewer
On paper the roster looks weaker, but don’t write off the Clippers. While Kawhi’s on the floor this team is dangerous. The Rockets are clear favourites, no argument there, but it wouldn’t shock to see L.A. keep it close most of the way. Last night’s 102-95 result backs that up. A defensive rematch usually means a tight one.
_____
First — a word on our picks
- What we publish on Mathodds is analysis, nothing more. It’s an opinion, a snapshot — not a guarantee. Sport is unpredictable. A red card, an injury, a freak goal… and the whole script changes.
- Let’s be clear: there’s no risk-free bet. Even when something looks “obvious”, it rarely is. Yes, you can lose. It will happen sooner or later.
- Be sensible. Bet small, set a budget and stick to it. Don’t touch money you need to live on. And don’t chase losses — it almost never ends well.
- Betting should be a pastime, not a job or a revenue stream. If it’s taking over your life, making you anxious or stressed, take a break. If needed, contact a specialist service — that’s what they’re for.
- Ultimately, the responsibility is yours. Reading our content means accepting the risk exists and won’t disappear, even with the best analysis.
- Important reminder: betting is banned for minors and must follow your local laws. Gambling can spiral (money loss, family strain, addiction). Need Help? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. In the UK? Visit https://www.gambleaware.org/https://www.gambleaware.org/.
No commitment from us
Our picks are not a contract. They carry no legal weight. Put bluntly: you can’t hold us responsible if a bet loses.
Info can change
A pick is based on what we know at the time of writing. Lineups shift, players get hurt, conditions change… and analysis can go out of date. We can’t be held liable for that.
Your role
Before you bet, check that wagering is legal where you are. If it’s not, that’s on you.
Responsible gambling first
We won’t keep repeating it enough: play responsibly. If you struggle to control it, get help. We’re not responsible for compulsive or excessive use of the site’s information.
Legal age
Mathodds content is for adults only. By browsing here you confirm you meet the legal betting age in your jurisdiction.
About the visuals
Images and logos on Mathodds, including those of the Houston Rockets and the Los Angeles Clippers, are for illustration only. They don’t imply an official link with any federation or sports organisation, and we claim no rights over them.
Those rights belong to the original owners. If, despite our checks, an image causes an issue, contact us and it will be removed without delay.
Our aim with these images is simple: make the read more pleasant. Nothing more. No commercial gain, no claiming others’ work.
Leave a Reply