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The Houston Rockets (6-4) are ahead of schedule in their rebuild, and they’ll attempt to grab another key victory early in the season when they visit the Los Angeles Lakers (7-6) Sunday night. The Lakers won their last time out, defeating the Trail Blazers.
Tari Eason is questionable for Houston with a leg injury. LeBron James continues to be listed as questionable with a calf injury, while Anthony Davis is probable with hip/groin issues.
The Lakers are 5.5-point favorites at DraftKings Sportsbook, with the total coming in at 220. Los Angeles is -225 on the moneyline while Houston is +185.
Rockets vs. Lakers, 9:30 p.m. ET
Pick ATS: Lakers -5.5
Even though the Rockets have been a strong team against the spread this season, they haven’t won a road game yet. The Lakers, on the other hand, are 5-1 at home and should have their stars in the fold. LA hasn’t been able to consistently deliver against some of the top teams in the West, but it has been able to take out inferior competition. Even though the Rockets may be better than their roster suggests, this is a tough spot for them. Back the Lakers to win and cover at home.
Over/Under: Under 220
Houston is 18th in offensive rating this season, while LA is 22nd. The Rockets are fourth in defensive rating, so that’s one strong point they can lean on in this contest. The Lakers aren’t great on the defensive end, but have fared much better at home on that side of the ball. Take the under in this game.