Rockets vs. Lakers Picks and Prediction – 3/31/2025

Houston Rockets (48-26) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (45-29)
Time: 10:00 PM ET
Location: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Line: LAL -5.5 | O/U: 225.5

Previous Games:

• Rockets: Defeated Utah Jazz 121-110

• Lakers: Won 134-127 vs. Memphis Grizzlies

Head-to-Head:

The Rockets have been covering the spread in 5 consecutive games against the Lakers, including their most recent matchups, so Houston has had success even when playing away from home. Meanwhile, the Lakers have struggled against the spread recently, failing to cover in 4 of their last 5 home games. With both teams possessing potent offenses, the OVER has consistently cashed, including in 6 of the last 8 Rockets games and 8 of the Lakers' last 11.

Houston Rockets Breakdown:

Houston, sitting comfortably in second place in the Western Conference, is on a roll, having won 9 of their last 10 games, with their most notable victory coming against the Utah Jazz; this was a dominating performance, where they secured a 121-110 win. The Rockets' offense has been unstoppable, averaging 122.4 points per game during their recent stretch, and Jalen Green, who leads the team with 21.5 points per game, has been essential in carrying the team. Moreover, Alperen Sengun, who is averaging a double-double with 19.2 points and 10.5 rebounds, has been excellent, adding both scoring and rebounding depth, which helps create an all-around strong offensive attack.

Houston’s aggressive playstyle, which has seen them shooting 47.6% from the field, allows them to keep games fast-paced, something that benefits them against teams like the Lakers, who, while offensively capable, have shown inconsistent defense. The Rockets' offensive efficiency, combined with their improved defense, especially in rebounding, has made them a dangerous team on the road, covering 9 of their last 10 games, including the spread in their last 5 consecutive road games.

Los Angeles Lakers Breakdown:

The Lakers are currently sitting in 4th place in the Western Conference but have been inconsistent lately, posting a 5-5 record over their last 10 games. Despite this, their win over the Memphis Grizzlies highlighted their offensive firepower, with Austin Reaves contributing 31 points and Luka Doncic adding another 29 points. The Lakers' offense, which averages 115.9 points per game, has been prolific, led by LeBron James, who contributes an impressive 24.5 points and 8.5 assists per game. Despite this, the Lakers have struggled to cover the spread, failing to do so in 6 of their last 10 games and also in 4 of their last 5 home games.

However, one thing that has worked well for Los Angeles is their ability to shoot from deep; they have hit 36.0% from 3-point territory. With Luka Doncic and LeBron James at the helm, the Lakers are an offensive juggernaut, but their lack of consistency in covering spreads, especially at home, makes them a questionable bet to cover the -5.5 line in this game, particularly against a red-hot Houston team that has been covering consistently.

Betting Trends:

Houston Rockets:

• 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games

• 6-2 on the OVER in their last 8 games

Los Angeles Lakers:

• 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games

• OVER has cashed in 8 of the Lakers’ last 11 games

Exact Score Prediction:

Los Angeles Lakers 119 – Houston Rockets 117

Our Best Bet:

Houston Rockets +5.5 (-110)

The Rockets have been consistent in covering spreads recently, particularly on the road, and given the +5.5 line, they should be able to keep this game close, especially considering the offensive firepower they bring. While the Lakers' offense will likely lead them to victory, Houston is more than capable of staying competitive, so this spread seems favorable for the Rockets.