Game Details:

Matchup: Philadelphia 76ers vs. Houston Rockets

Date & Time: Monday, March 17, 2025 | 8:00 PM ET

Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, TX

Betting Line: 76ers -4.5 | Over/Under: 225.5

Key Storylines

76ers on a Roll

Philadelphia is coming into this matchup in solid form, having won five of their last six games. Joel Embiid continues to dominate, averaging 30+ points per game since returning from injury. The Sixers are pushing for better seeding in the Eastern Conference playoff race, making this a crucial game.

Houston’s Young Core Competing

The Rockets may be outside the playoff picture, but they’ve been giving teams trouble with their young core, led by Jalen Green and Alperen Şengün. Houston has been particularly strong at home, where they’ve won seven of their last ten games.

Battle in the Paint

This game could be decided in the paint. Embiid will be a force, but Şengün has made strides this season and will look to put up a fight inside. If Houston can contain Embiid and force him into tough shots, they might keep this game close.

Injury Report

Philadelphia 76ers:

Out: De’Anthony Melton (back), Paul Reed (ankle)

Questionable: Tobias Harris (knee)

Houston Rockets:

Out: Dillon Brooks (calf), Amen Thompson (ankle)

Questionable: Tari Eason (day-to-day)

Betting Trends

Against the Spread (ATS):

76ers: 35-28 ATS this season

Rockets: 30-32 ATS this season

Over/Under Trends:

The total has gone over in 36 of Philadelphia’s 63 games

The total has gone under in 34 of Houston’s 62 games

Home & Away Splits:

Philadelphia: 17-13 on the road

Houston: 20-11 at home

Player Prop to Watch

Joel Embiid (76ers) – Points Total: 30.5

Embiid is averaging over 30 points per game recently, and Houston’s interior defense has struggled at times. The over on his points total is a strong play.

Jalen Green (Rockets) – Points Total: 22.5

Green has found his scoring rhythm and will need a big game for Houston to compete. Betting the over could be a solid option.

Prediction & Best Bets

Spread: Philadelphia -4.5 → The 76ers have been strong against the spread and should take care of business.

Total: Over 225.5 → Philadelphia’s offensive firepower could push this total over.

Player Prop: Joel Embiid Over 30.5 points → He has been unstoppable lately, and Houston lacks a strong defensive answer for him.

The Rockets are a competitive home team, but Philadelphia’s depth and experience give them the edge. If Houston’s young stars get hot, they could cover, but the 76ers are the safer bet.

Final Score Prediction: 76ers 118, Rockets 109