Houston Rockets (43-25) vs Philadelphia 76ers (23-44)
Game Info: Monday, March 17, 2025 at 8:00 pm (Toyota Center (Houston))
Betting Odds: Houston Rockets -15 -- Over/Under: 222 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: Space City Home Network
The Houston Rockets (43-25) are set to host the Philadelphia 76ers (22-44) on March 17, 2025, at Toyota Center in Houston. The Rockets are currently on a six-game winning streak, showcasing strong form as they aim to solidify their playoff positioning. In contrast, the 76ers have struggled this season, dealing with injuries to key players such as Joel Embiid, who has been sidelined for the remainder of the season, and Tyrese Maxey, whose return date remains uncertain.
Given the Rockets' momentum and home-court advantage, they enter this matchup as the favorites. However, the 76ers will look to their emerging talents to step up and challenge Houston in this contest.
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Guerschon Yabusele Over 8.5 Rebounds
Guerschon Yabusele has been a consistent contributor to the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2024–25 NBA season. Over 61 games, he has averaged 5.6 rebounds per game, ranking 63rd in the league. His rebounding is divided into 1.9 offensive and 3.7 defensive rebounds per game. Yabusele's consistent rebounding has been vital for the 76ers, especially in the absence of key players like Joel Embiid. Yabusele is coming off a massive game on the glass, securing 15 rebounds against the Indiana Pacers. With how thin this Sixers frontcourt is I don’t see Yabusele slowing down on the boards.
Jalen Green Over 22.5 Points
Jalen Green has been a key offensive contributor for the Houston Rockets during the 2024–25 NBA season. Over 67 games, he has averaged 21.3 points per game, ranking 33rd in the league. Green's shooting efficiency includes a field goal percentage of 42.6% and a three-point shooting percentage of 35.8%. Green has been hot as of late, scoring 23+ points in his last 3 games, and is coming off a massive 28-point game against Chicago. He has a favorable matchup against this Sixers team that has been bad at guarding the 3pt shot and weak in the interior, which is where Jalen Green likes to score his points.
Jabari Smith Over 6.5 Rebounds
Jabari Smith Jr. has been a significant presence for the Houston Rockets during the 2024–25 NBA season. He’s averaging 6.6 rebounds per game, with 1.9 offensive rebounds and 4.7 defensive rebounds per game. Smith's rebounding performance has been consistent throughout the season. For instance, in a game against the Dallas Mavericks on March 14, 2025, the Rockets dominated the boards, achieving a 67-34 rebounding margin, which contributed to their 133-96 victory. Smith has secured 7+ rebounds in 7 of his last 10 games. He’s coming off a 9-rebounds game against the Bulls, and I don’t see him slowing down in this one. The Sixers are soft in the paint right now due to injuries, and I expect Smith to capitalize on that.
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AUTHOR: Brad Francis
