Published Oct 18, 5:22pm ET by
James Tillman - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Oct 18, 5:22pm ET
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Updated Oct 18, 5:22pm ET
One of the games on Tuesday's NBA slate features the OKC Thunder hosting the Houston Rockets. Who has the edge in our Thunder vs Rockets pick?
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|
|---|---|
| Oklahoma City Thunder | -7.5 (-110) |
| Houston Rockets | +7.5 (-110) |
As has been the case in various moments during the preseason, OKC looked somewhat shaky against the Nuggets. In fact, they trailed by nine points heading into the fourth quarter. However, the defending champs responded with a 28-16 scoring edge in the game's final 12 minutes on its way to a 94-91 victory.
Ousmane Dieng was the Thunder's top scorer in this contest. He led the way with 17 points and four rebounds on 6-for-12 shooting from the floor. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 12 points, five assists, and four rebounds, converting each of his five shot attempts.
OKC was the top defensive team in the association last season, and it will be put to the test against a Rockets team that acquired Kevin Durant in the offseason.
Despite sitting most of their starters, the Rockets trailed by just one point at the break. And in the second half, Houston broke the game open, outscoring the Hawks 73-54, including a 38-28 advantage in the final frame. The ending result was a 133-115 victory.
Six players reached double figures for the Rockets. Reed Sheppard paced the offense with 29 points, six rebounds, six assists, four steals, and three blocks. Josh Okogie added 28 points, three rebounds, and three assists.
The offseason acquisitions of Durant, Dorian Finney-Smith and Clint Capela positioned the Rockets to contend for the conference crown. However, it will be interesting to see how this group navigates without Fred VanVleet, who suffered a torn ACL injury that could sideline him for the entire season.
| PLAYER | STATUS |
|---|---|
| Fred VanVleet | INJURED |
Here's a look at what you need to know for both teams ahead of this contest.
OKC holds a slight 3-2 edge in the previous five meetings in this series. In a game that can go either way, look for the Thunder to come on out on top in a close one.
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Pick
OKC Thunder
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