Utah Jazz vs. Houston Rockets Betting Preview – February 22, 2025

The Utah Jazz (28-27) will face off against the Houston Rockets (25-30) in a Western Conference matchup at the Toyota Center in Houston. Both teams are fighting for positioning in the playoff race, making this a crucial game with significant implications.

Current Standings and Recent Form

• Utah Jazz: Sitting in 9th place in the Western Conference, the Jazz are pushing to solidify a play-in tournament spot. They’ve won six of their last ten games but have struggled defensively.
• Houston Rockets: Currently in 11th place, the Rockets are just a few games back from the final play-in spot. They’ve been inconsistent lately, going 4-6 in their last ten, but have shown flashes of potential at home.

Injury Report

• Utah Jazz:
  • Lauri Markkanen – Probable (ankle soreness)
  • Jordan Clarkson – Questionable (hamstring tightness)
  • Walker Kessler – Out (elbow sprain)
• Houston Rockets:
  • Jalen Green – Probable (knee management)
  • Fred VanVleet – Out (groin strain)
  • Jabari Smith Jr. – Questionable (ankle sprain)

Key Player Matchups

• Lauri Markkanen (UTA) vs. Alperen Sengun (HOU)
  Markkanen has been a dominant force for the Jazz, averaging 24.8 points and 8.9 rebounds per game. He’ll have his hands full against Sengun, who has developed into one of the league’s best young big men, averaging 21.1 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists.
• Collin Sexton (UTA) vs. Jalen Green (HOU)
  Sexton has stepped up in recent weeks, averaging 19.5 points per game in February. With VanVleet sidelined, Green will need to shoulder more of the offensive burden for Houston.

Betting Odds & Insights

• Point Spread: Jazz -2.5
• Over/Under: 228.5 total points
• Moneyline: Jazz -140 | Rockets +120

Betting Trends:

• The Jazz have covered the spread in four of their last five games.
• The Rockets are 5-2 ATS in their last seven home games.
• Five of Utah’s last six games have gone over the total.

Storylines to Watch

1. Houston’s Playoff Push
   The Rockets are trying to stay in the mix for the play-in tournament. With a win tonight, they can move within striking distance of the 10th seed.
2. Utah’s Road Struggles
   The Jazz have had difficulty on the road, going 10-17 away from home. Can they break their trend and secure an important road win?
3. Jalen Green’s Opportunity
   With VanVleet out, Green has a chance to showcase his growth as a playmaker. He’s averaging 26.4 points per game in his last five contests, and another big night could boost his confidence.

Prediction & Best Bet

Both teams are evenly matched, but Utah’s recent momentum and stronger frontcourt presence could be the difference-maker. However, Houston’s home-court advantage makes them a dangerous underdog.

Pick: Utah Jazz -2.5 & Over 228.5 total points

This game should be a close one, with the Jazz having the slight edge due to Markkanen’s scoring and Houston’s injury issues.