Denver Nuggets vs Houston Rockets Prediction, Odds and Picks for Friday, 11/21/25

The Nuggets enter this matchup still largely untested as an underdog, sitting at 0-1 in that role and lacking a proven formula when they aren’t in the driver’s seat. Obviously, Nikola Jokic continues to post video game-like, MVP-caliber numbers, and Jamal Murray remains a threat to explode offensively — but Denver’s defensive inconsistency and shifting bench rotations make them harder to trust in tough road environments. Even with strong shooting efficiency, the Nuggets have shown vulnerability against physical, athletic teams that push pace and attack the glass.

Houston, meanwhile, has been one of the league’s most dependable teams at home – going 5-1 – and they’re an impressive 10-2 as a favorite. Their production comes from a balanced core: Alperen Sengun controls the interior, Kevin Durant is an all-around talent between scoring and playmaking, and Amen Thompson provides energy and defense. The Rockets’ physicality, rebounding and discipline have consistently disrupted finesse heavy opponents, and their home court performance has been a major separator. With this matchup close on paper but Houston far more reliable in their building and in favored situations, the smarter side is Houston.

Nuggets vs Rockets prediction: Houston -2.5 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number.

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