Monday's NBA slate features an exciting rematch between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder, where Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the Thunder against Nikola Jokic's Nuggets. After a 127-103 win on Sunday, the Thunder are favored by 9 points, with a total points over/under set at 238. In another critical matchup, the New York Knicks are 2.5-point favorites on the road against the Sacramento Kings.

Expert handicapper Jimmie Kaylor has made prop bets for first basket scorers, highlighting Alperen Sengun from the Rockets, Jamal Murray from the Nuggets, and Austin Reeves of the Lakers. Sengun is expected to leverage his physicality against the Magic, while Murray, despite a rough outing previously, could bounce back. Reeves aims to capitalize on increased scoring opportunities in the absence of LeBron James.

The Houston Rockets continue to impress with a surprising 39-25 record, currently ranking fifth in the Western Conference. This success is a result of a well-rounded team effort, highlighted by eight players averaging double-digit points. Although Alperen Sengun's All-Star status is notable, Amen Thompson has emerged as a potential superstar, showcasing his two-way skills. Unfortunately, Thompson is now sidelined for 10-14 days due to a sprained ankle, with an MRI revealing no structural damage. His injury occurred in an attempt to secure a triple-double during a blowout game, a risky decision by coach Ime Udoka.

Thompson is in his second season, averaging 14 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while also demonstrating All-Defensive Team caliber defense. However, with the playoffs approaching in about five weeks, the Rockets must prioritize Thompson's full recovery to avoid any setbacks. Rushing his return could jeopardize their playoff aspirations. The team's depth will be tested during this critical stretch as they look to maintain their momentum without their rising star.

The Houston Rockets faced a challenging game against the Indiana Pacers, ultimately losing 115-102. Despite a strong start with Jalen Green scoring six points early, the Rockets couldn't maintain their momentum. Alperen Sengun led the scoring with 25 points, while Tyrese Haliburton shined for the Pacers with 21 points at halftime. The Rockets struggled with shooting consistency, especially in the second quarter when Indiana outscored them, largely due to Haliburton's contributions.

Defensively, Ime Udoka's strategies, including zone defense, aimed to counter the Pacers' offensive rhythm but fell short. Houston's bench also underperformed, with only 12 points compared to Indiana's 22. The Rockets briefly rallied in the fourth, cutting Indiana's lead to just one, but a string of missed shots ultimately sealed their fate. They'll look to bounce back against the New Orleans Pelicans next.

In a hard-fought contest, the Houston Rockets fell to the Sacramento Kings 113-103, despite a strong performance from Alperen Sengun, who led the Rockets with 30 points and 8 rebounds. Jalen Green contributed with 24 points as well. The game started poorly for Houston, as they trailed 12-3 before responding with an 18-6 run, closing the first quarter down by just four points. However, the Rockets struggled to keep pace, particularly in the fourth quarter where they shot only 39% from the field.

Sacramento maintained control throughout the game, with Domantas Sabonis exiting early due to a hamstring injury. Dillon Brooks gave the Rockets a brief lead in the second quarter, but they ultimately could not overcome the Kings' efficiency, who shot over 50% from the field and dominated points in the paint. The Rockets will look to bounce back against the Oklahoma City Thunder next.