Houston Rockets vs Brooklyn Nets Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 01/01/26

KD and co. have held the fort down in Sengun’s absence and the Rockets all of a sudden find themselves on a 3-game win streak. Their latest victim were the Indiana Pacers and although they didn’t cover in that game, the Rockets will be happy with the result. Sengun’s absence has left a bit of a void in the middle which Steven Adams has filled, however the latest injury report has Adams listed as questionable which could be problematic. Tari Eason and Clint Capela are also on there, the Rockets might struggle with size in this game, which isn’t something we’re used to seeing.

Despite their most recent loss to Golden State, I have really enjoyed watching these Brooklyn Nets over the past couple of weeks. They’ve completely transformed themselves into an alite defensive team, something you don’t see often in today’s NBA. The last 10 games have seen them have the league’s best defensive efficiency, allowing just 105.6 points per 100 possessions. Sharpshooter Michael Porter Jr. is flourishing in his role as the team’s leading scorer, plus Cam Thomas recently returned from injury which should also be a boost to their scoring abilities.

Unless I’m missing something very obvious here, I am not entirely sure why the Rockets are double-digit favorites here. They face a tough minded Nets team and it won’t be easy scoring on them, even for a motivated Kevin Durant who faces an old team of his. I’m happy to risk it a bit and take Brooklyn on the Money Line. For those who want a safer option I’d recommend backing the Nets plus the spread.

Houston Rockets vs Brookly Nets Predictions: Nets ML is available at +375 at time of publishing.