Rockets vs Thunder Picks: Houston (+6) Best Bet December 14

The NBA Cup semifinals are about to get real, and the Houston Rockets are looking to take down the Oklahoma Thunder. It’s the kind of game that’ll have you on the edge of your seat, and for those of you into NBA betting tips, there’s a lot to think about with these two teams going head-to-head.

Whether you’re looking to lock in on a pick or just enjoying the madness, Saturday’s semifinal is going to be a must-watch. We’ve got young stars on both sides, injuries to consider and a chance for the underdogs to make a statement. Let’s dive into my NBA predictions and see what’s coming up.

Bet $200 on NBA, Get $450 Bonus on a first-time deposit! Power up your picks!

Rockets vs Thunder Game Information

• Game: Rockets (17-8) vs Thunder (19-5)
• Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas
• Date/Time: Dec. 14, 8:30 p.m. ET
• Rockets vs Thunder Live Stream: NBA League Pass

Rockets vs Thunder NBA Predictions on Dec. 14

1. Houston Rockets ATS (+5.5)

This wasn’t an easy pick, but after breaking it down, the Rockets have the edge in several key areas. Think about it: the Oklahoma City Thunder‘s offense heavily relies on point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who’s averaging 30.2 points and 6.3 assists per game. When he’s out, the Thunder just don’t have the same punch.

Sure, forward Jalen Williams is a solid contributor with 21.8 points per game, but the depth just isn’t there without SGA to draw attention. Also, with Chet Holmgren (16.4 points per game) still out with a hip fracture, per updated Rocket vs Thunder injuries, the Thunder are missing a crucial piece of their frontcourt offense.

In comparison, the Rockets have a more well-rounded attack. Shooting guard Jalen Green leads the charge with 19.2 points per game, and then there’s center Alperen Sengun, who’s been a double double machine, averaging 18.8 points and 10.6 rebounds per game and is a great option in NBA player prop picks.

But it doesn’t stop there. Point guard Fred VanVleet adds another 15.6 points and 5.9 assists. Houston’s balanced offense, with multiple guys contributing, means the Rockets can sustain pressure over a full game, unlike the Thunder who struggle when their star is absent.

FVV FOR THREEE 🎯 pic.twitter.com/0DR2Sx9ofn

— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) December 12, 2024

Look, six points is a lot to give in a matchup like this, especially with the Rockets playing with confidence. This one’s going to be a fight to the last buzzer, but the Rockets’ depth and energy should be enough to hang on against the Thunder and cover the points in NBA picks.

Bet this Pick: Rockets (+5.5)

2. Rockets vs Thunder Over 213

Before you do a double take on the title of this section, let me clear it up for you: Yes, I’m taking the over on this matchup, expecting it to sail past the 213-point mark. And frankly, it’s obvious why. Sure, both the Rockets and Thunder have been defensive locksmiths this season.

Per Rockets vs Thunder stats, OKC sits second in the league, giving up just 103.8 points per game, while Houston is right behind them in third, allowing 105.9. On paper, betting the under might seem like the no-brainer call.

Shimmy and shake 🕺 pic.twitter.com/uCWNzXNiPH

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) December 11, 2024

But let’s not forget what happened just a little over a week ago when these teams last met. The Rockets pulled off a 119-116 win – a game that easily crushed the 213-point line. And in today’s NBA, 213 points total isn’t exactly a high bar.

Both these teams have the firepower to push past 108 points apiece in a matchup like this easily, even with their defensive reputations. So yeah, I’m expecting the points to pile up in this one.

Take the over – it’s the NBA bet online that makes sense on Saturday night.

Bet this Pick: Over 213 points

Questions of the Day

Odds and information are accurate at the time of writing. Please check with official sources for the latest updates before placing any bets.