Utah Jazz (22-20) vs. Houston Rockets (19-21)
As the Utah Jazz and Houston Rockets prepare to face off on Saturday, NBA fans are buzzing with anticipation. The Jazz have the upper hand on paper with slightly better records, hoping to extend their winning streak against an evenly-matched opponent at Toyota Center. For those looking for an NBA winning pick this game offers both emerging talent and strategic play – recent form from Utah shows they are on an upward trend while Houston cannot be underestimated at home.
Utah Jazz have been on an impressive winning streak of five consecutive games since November 1. Much of their success can be credited to their high-powered offense averaging 116.8 points per game with an effective field goal percentage of 46.8% and making an average of 13.2 three-pointers each game, which have played a key role in recent victories. Furthermore, an impressive rebounding average of 46.6 per game serves to show their dominance on the glass; an essential element in managing game pace.
Houston Rockets have also struggled lately, winning only one out of their last five games. Yet their overall performance this season shows they can be formidable opponents, with an average 112.7 point per game showing just that. Their shooting accuracy (46.2% field goal percentage) and rebounding presence (averaging 45 rebounds per game) give them a strong edge when facing off against one of Utah Jazz. Both sides could prove key factors when competing closely contested matchups come their way this weekend.
Utah Jazz vs. Houston Rockets Game Info
| When: | Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Toyota Center |
| TV: | Space City Home Network |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Lauri Markkanen (PF) vs. Alperen Sengun (C)
Lauri Markkanen has taken his game to new heights in his first season with Utah. He’s averaging career-highs across the board with 24 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game. His outside shooting and size have been a perfect fit for the Jazz offense. Markkanen will look to exploit his matchup against the smaller Sengun. While he can be streaky at times, Markkanen has been reliable during Utah’s five-game win streak. He will be counted on to lead the Jazz offense.
Alperen Sengun has impressed in his second NBA season, establishing himself as a building block for Houston. He stuffs the stat sheet on a nightly basis with 21.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.7 blocks per contest. Sengun uses his crafty post play and court vision to impact games in a variety of ways. He will have his hands full in this matchup, as the Jazz have multiple big men to throw at the young center. If Sengun gets into early foul trouble, it could spell doom for the Rockets.
This matchup pits an ascending, in-form Jazz team against a struggling Rockets group. Markkanen and Sengun will battle head-to-head, but Utah simply has too much momentum right now. Expect Markkanen and the Jazz to overpower Houston for their sixth straight victory.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As betting odds for this game are TBD, analyzing the teams’ performance and trends is vital for making informed predictions. Bettors should keep an eye on updates for spread and moneyline odds to gauge market sentiment.
Utah Jazz Betting Trends
The Jazz have enjoyed impressive recent results, winning four out of their last five games and holding to an identical record against the spread. This indicates both their ability to win but also exceed expectations; however, their road performance against the spread (10-12) indicates some vulnerability away from home; totals have gone OVER in three out of their last five contests; bettors might factor this trend into their over/under prediction for this contest.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
The Rockets’ recent form is concerning, with a 1-4 record in their last five games and an identical record against the spread. This indicates difficulties both in securing wins and in meeting betting expectations. Their road record against the spread (6-12) further underscores their struggles in away games. However, with the totals going OVER in several of their recent games, there could be value in betting on a higher-scoring game.
Utah Jazz vs. Houston Rockets 1/20/24 Betting Picks
Based on current trends and statistics, the Utah Jazz appear to have the upper hand in this matchup. Their offensive efficiency and recent form give them an edge over the Houston Rockets. However, considering the Rockets’ ability to score and compete on the boards, this game could be closer than the records suggest.
For bettors looking for the best betting websites, it’s essential to monitor the movement in the odds, especially the point spread and over/under lines. Prop bets on key players like Markkanen and Sengun could also offer value, given their significant impact on their respective teams.
