NBA Predictions: Will Rockets make statement versus Warriors? 1/4/17

Warriors vs. Rockets Pick

Despite not having James Harden on the floor tonight, will the host Houston Rockets get it done versus the Golden State Warriors? Action starts at 8PM ET.

Who Oddsmakers Like: According to oddsmakers at Bovada.lv, the Warriors are a 4-point favorite on the spread line. The total is set at 230 points. Golden State opened as a 4-point fave, while the total has risen from 228 points.

Bet Tonight's NBA Action

Who the Public Likes: Golden State. As of Thursday afternoon, 78 percent of public bets have come in on the Warriors.

Injury Report: News came in this afternoon that Golden State forward Kevin Durant will not play tonight after suffering a strained calf in last night's 125-122 win at the Mavericks. Andre Iguodala was held out of the last game with a back injury and is questionable tonight. Omri Casspi missed the Dallas game with a sore back and is also questionable. For the Rockets, Nene left the last game with a knee contusion and his status for tonight is up in the air. Luc Mbah a Moute is sidelined until mid-January with a dislocated shoulder. James Harden is by far the most notable injury for the hosts as he is out a couple weeks at least with a hamstring strain. .

Who the Trends Like: Golden State is 5-1 ATS in its last six meetings in Houston. The under is 4-0 in the last four meetings in Houston and 6-2 in the last eight meetings overall. 

Who We Like: I already thought I liked the Rockets to cover as dogs before the Durant news broke. Obviously, now I like them even more. Houston ripped Orlando on the road by a count of 116-98 in the first game without Harden and showed Chris Paul is more than capable of leading this team to victories. The supporting cast is outstanding and the chemistry between Paul and center Capela with Harden off the court is something special. Houston is going to put on a showcase tonight in my opinion.

NBA DAILY PREDICTION: HOUSTON ROCKETS +4

Need More winners against the spread? Get $60 worth of FREE premium member picks. Instant Access here.