Houston vs Indiana Pick & Prediction for November 20, 2024

The Houston Rockets host the Indiana Pacers at the Toyota Center on November 20, 2024. Houston, sitting at 10-5, looks to bounce back from a narrow 101-100 loss to Milwaukee, while Indiana, at 6-8, seeks to address their rebounding struggles after a 130-119 defeat to Toronto. Both teams are aiming to recalibrate as they navigate challenging schedules.
Houston has been strong at home, with a 6-2 record, while Indiana has struggled on the road at 2-6. This matchup pits Houston’s stout defense against Indiana’s high-paced offense.
Indiana Pacers Preview
The Pacers are in a rough patch, having lost four of their last six games. Their primary concern remains rebounding, ranking near the bottom of the league with a 47.7% rebounding rate. Against Toronto, they were outrebounded by 14 and gave up 18 points off turnovers.
Bennedict Mathurin has been a bright spot, scoring 28 points in the loss to Toronto. Tyrese Haliburton, despite a tough shooting night, contributed with five steals and remains the team’s top playmaker. However, injuries to key players like Andrew Nembhard and Aaron Nesmith add to their challenges. Bennedict Mathurin will need to lead the offensive charge.
Defensively, Indiana has struggled to contain opponents, allowing 130 points in their last game. To compete against Houston, they’ll need to limit turnovers and secure second-chance opportunities.
Indiana’s road struggles and injury concerns make this a tough matchup against a Houston team excelling at home.
Houston Rockets Preview
The Rockets come into this game after a hard-fought loss to Milwaukee, which snapped a five-game win streak. Fred VanVleet led the scoring with 26 points, while Jalen Green added 21. Despite shooting just 40% from the field, Houston’s ability to generate second-chance points and transition opportunities has kept them competitive.
Houston’s defense ranks among the league’s best, holding opponents to 105.7 points per game. Alperen Şengün has been a consistent presence inside, scoring 18 points and grabbing seven rebounds in the last game. Fred VanVleet will play a pivotal role in orchestrating Houston’s offense.
Injuries to Jalen Green (illness) and Cam Whitmore (knee) could impact their depth, but Houston’s defensive consistency and strong home record provide an edge. They’ll aim to capitalize on Indiana’s rebounding struggles to control the game.
Houston’s balance between offense and defense positions them well to rebound from their loss and maintain their strong home performance.
Houston vs Indiana Prediction
This matchup favors Houston, given their defensive edge and Indiana’s road struggles. The Pacers’ inability to secure rebounds and protect the ball puts them at a disadvantage against a disciplined Rockets team. Houston’s home dominance and ability to generate second-chance points make them the clear favorite.
The spread favors Houston at -6.5, and their defensive consistency should help them control the game’s pace and secure a solid win.
- Our Pick: Houston -6.5