For NBA enthusiasts and bettors, exploring this week’s best opportunities reveals a standout in Jalen Green, who is expected to exceed 3.5 three-pointers against the New Orleans Pelicans. His recent stats show an impressive average of 3.4 threes per game, making him a favorable bet given the Pelicans' struggles defensively on the perimeter.

Additionally, Josh Hart is projected to achieve over 1.5 steals against the Los Angeles Lakers. Hart's gameplay has shown consistency in surpassing this mark, especially considering the Lakers' recent turnover issues. Conversely, Andre Drummond is likely to fall short of 19.5 points and rebounds against the Celtics, especially with Boston's injury challenges. This matchup is ideal for the Celtics to exploit their shooting strengths, while Drummond might struggle with the pace of the game.

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.

Fred VanVleet's return to the Houston Rockets creates renewed excitement as the playoff race heats up. After dealing with a significant ankle injury that sidelined him for 11 games, VanVleet's leadership and on-court prowess are crucial. His partnership with Amen Thompson has shown promise, enhancing the team's dynamic. Coach Ime Udoka emphasized that with VanVleet back, the Rockets are poised to improve their playoff positioning, especially after a struggling stretch without him.

Despite a 5-6 record during his absence, VanVleet believes the team has learned valuable lessons, boosting their resilience. As the Rockets gear up for the final stretch of the season, the combination of VanVleet's competitive spirit and the developing chemistry with Thompson could be the key to a successful playoff push.

Since the All-Star Break, the Houston Rockets have impressively secured victories over notable playoff contenders like the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Milwaukee Bucks. Leading the charge is Jalen Green, whose scoring prowess has been crucial for Houston, especially in Fred VanVleet's absence due to injury. In a recent match against the Timberwolves, Green and Anthony Edwards showcased their offensive skills, with Green finishing with 35 points on 50% shooting.

Despite a tough loss to the Utah Jazz where Green recorded 25 points and 10 assists, his consistent offensive output has been a beacon for the Rockets. Another key performance came against the Bucks, where Green scored 25 points, helping secure a narrow victory. If Green maintains this high scoring level, the Rockets are poised to continue their success, provided the rest of the team steps up as well.

The Houston Rockets secured a narrow 100-97 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, showcasing a strong performance from Jalen Green, who led the team with 25 points. Early in the game, Alperen Sengun established himself with a swift six points, aiding Houston to a 16-12 lead. However, the Bucks rallied back, ending the first half with a two-point advantage after a 23-11 run.

In a fiercely contested second half, both teams exchanged leads, with the score tied at 85 after three quarters. The game's intensity peaked in the fourth quarter, where the Rockets surged ahead, but a critical flagrant foul by Amen Thompson on Giannis Antetokounmpo led to his ejection. In the final moments, Sengun's clutch free throws sealed the game for the Rockets, who will face the Spurs next.