The Houston Rockets are making waves this season, solidifying their position as one of the top teams in the Western Conference. After winning six consecutive games, the Rockets currently hold the second spot in the standings, just behind the Memphis Grizzlies and Denver Nuggets. This remarkable resurgence highlights the teams growth, bringing renewed optimism to fans and the organization as they face off against the Philadelphia 76ers today.
On March 17, 2025, the Rockets (43-25) will host the struggling 76ers (23-44) at the Toyota Center, where they are heavy favorites by 17 points. The matchup is also expected to generate considerable interest, with game time set for 8 p.m. ET. The point total for the game is set at 223.5, slightly lower than the combined average of the two teams, which stands at 222.8 points per game.
Central to Houston's success this year has been the emergence of guard Amen Thompson, who is drawing comparisons to former superstar Russell Westbrook from within the organization. This season, Thompson is averaging 14.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, significantly improving from last year's 9.5 points per game. His explosive performances have captured the attention of NBA analysts and fans alike.
Tim Bontemps from The Hoop Collective noted, A lot of this is like, 'Hey, is the star potentially already on the roster? Is the number one guy they can build around, the kind of guy you need to be able to contend for a championship? Is he on the roster?' Such evaluations suggest Thompson might play a pivotal role as Houston moves forward. Bontemps added, Tell me what Russell Westbrook at his peak could do...that this kid [Amen Thompson] doesnt have a chance to do.
Beyond Thompson, the Rockets boast other young talents including Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Tari Eason, who collectively contribute to the teams depth and versatility. The franchise appears poised for long-term success, as they can either develop their current roster, which is performing exceptionally well, or leverage their assets to acquire veteran superstars such as Kevin Durant. The interest in Durant could shape the offseason conversation, especially if he opts to leave the Phoenix Suns.
Houstons recent successes are highlighted by their impressive rebounding, where they average 48.6 boards per game, the highest in the league. This rebounding victory is complemented by their offensive strategy, scoring 113.2 points per game, placing them 17th overall. Defensive metrics show they allow only 108.7 points per game, ranking them fifth. This scoring differential of +306 points reflects their strong overall performance this season.
Both teams recent forms present contrasting scenarios. While the Rockets are soaring high on their winning streak, the 76ers have faced challenges, struggling to maintain consistency. Following their unexpected victory against Dallas, the 76ers will be hoping to find some momentum, but their chances against the red-hot Rockets are slim, particularly without stars Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
Despite the 76ers' best efforts, their on-court performance has left much to be desired. They rank 25th with 109.6 points scored per game and are also struggling defensively, allowing 114.6 points, which puts them at 17th overall. Their rebounding efforts are almost woeful, as they only average 39.4 rebounds per game, placing them dead last. With such disadvantages, and playing against the highly efficient Rockets, it's difficult to envision Philadelphia pulling off an upset today.
Interestingly enough, the analytics around the game show potential for Houston to cover the spread easily. The Philadelphia 76ers have not won back-to-back games since late January, raising questions about team morale and overall effectiveness. Their struggles are evident, and as the 76ers enter Houston, they must confront not only the Rockets' rising star but the combined strength of the Rockets' roster.
Looking at individual performances, Rockets' players such as Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green have been instrumental during this six-game run. Sengun is averaging 19.2 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, demonstrating his all-around contribution. Green also adds to the mix with 21.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, consistently providing offensive firepower when needed.
The bigger question for the Rockets remains whether they will maintain their current path or make significant moves this summer. Their ability to nurture Thompson's talents alongside their other young players seems promising, especially considering they have shown resilience and adaptability throughout the season.
With the clock ticking down to the game, the anticipation is building for Houston fans. They hope their team can capitalize on the momentum gained during the current season and continue the upward trend against the 76ers. Whatever today's outcome may be, this season has already illustrated Houston's potential foundational pieces, setting the stage for what could be years of excitement for the franchise and its supporters.
