Houston vs Cleveland. NBA match prediction
On January 23, the Toyota Center in Houston will host a meeting between the Rockets and the Cavaliers. This confrontation promises to be exciting, because one of the leaders of the Western Conference and the leader of the East will meet on the court. Houston is looking for stability after recent failures, and the home arena can play into their hands. At the same time, Cleveland continues to demonstrate excellent form and strengthens its position among the favorites of the league. Who will be stronger in this match? - read our betting tip

Command Analysis

Houston Rockets

Current form
The Rockets are second in the Western Conference, but recent results show that the team will have to work hard to maintain their position. After losses to Sacramento (127:132) and Detroit (96:107), Ime Udoka team is under threat, as Memphis is hot on their heels. In the last match, Houston offense failed to cope with its task, and the defense looked insufficiently organized.
Key roles in the upcoming game should be played by Jaylen Green and Alperen Shengun, who are the leaders of the team. However, it will take more than just individual efforts to succeed. The Rockets are known for their aggressive play at home, which makes them a tough opponent for any opponent, including Cleveland.
Disqualifications and injuries
Steven Adams and Jabari Smith Jr. will not play in the next game due to injuries.
Interesting facts for betting
The Rockets have 14 home wins this season.
Probable lineup: Thompson - Brooks, Shengyun - VanVleet, Green.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Current form
The Cavs are at the top of the Eastern Conference and continue to show consistency, which is why they remain one of the main contenders for the championship. The last two games brought the team victories over Minnesota (124:117) and Phoenix (118:92). Donovan Mitchell is showing brilliant form, and the team play under the leadership of Kenny Atkinson deserves high marks.
Strong defense and the ability to realize key moments make Cleveland a dangerous opponent for any team. The upcoming away game against Houston will be a real test for the leaders of the East, especially considering the motivation of the hosts.
Disqualifications and injuries
Caris LeVert will not be able to help his team due to health issues.
Interesting facts for betting
The Cavs have lost just once in their last five road games.
Probable lineup: Strus - Wade, Allen - Garland, Mitchell.
Trends
Bet 1st quarter. Cleveland win
The Cavs have won in the first quarter in three of their last five head-to-head games.
1.88Bet 1st quarter: total over 57.5 points
In 3 of the last 5 head-to-head games, more than 57 points were scored in the first quarter.
1.73Tip and bets
Cleveland stability is impressive. The team demonstrates a great balance between attack and defense, which allows them to achieve success in most matches. However, Houston is also one of the strong teams that can surprise on their home arena.
After a recent loss, the Rockets will be looking to bounce back and try to find weaknesses in the Cavs' game. In our opinion, the match will be a tense struggle, but the hosts have a chance to win if they can use their attacking resources.
Our prediction is Houston win with overtime at 2.12
Bet on total
Both teams demonstrate high efficiency. Houston relies on an aggressive attack, especially at home, where it feels confident. Cleveland, in turn, maintains a high tempo and knows how to use its moments. We assume that the match will be spectacular and the teams will be able to beat the total.
Betting Tip - total over 230 points for 1.71
Bet on statistics
The Rockets' offense is their main strength, especially at home, where the team often shows a high level of play. The motivation to rehabilitate after losses and beat the leader of the East should give an additional boost to the Houston players. We believe that the hosts will show themselves worthy and will be able to beat their individual total.
Prediction - Houston individual total over 115.5 points for 1.90