Portland (18-20) hosts Houston (22-12) at Moda Center on Jan. 9, 2026 with both clubs missing multiple starters. Expect a depth-driven, lower-scoring game — bettors might lean toward the Rockets to cover if their rotation stays healthier, while the under is a viable play given the depleted offenses and limited playmakers.
Trail Blazers chase fifth straight win against Rockets
The Portland Trail Blazers (18-20) will try to extend a four-game win streak when they host the Houston Rockets (22-12) on Jan. 9, 2026 at Moda Center. With both squads carrying significant injury lists, the matchup will be decided by depth and role players stepping up.
Injury report and availability
Houston Rockets
Alperen Sengun: Out (Ankle) Fred VanVleet: Out for season (ACL) Isaiah Crawford: Out (Illness)
Portland Trail Blazers
Damian Lillard: Out for season (Achilles) Jrue Holiday: Day-to-day (Calf) Jerami Grant: Out (Achilles) Kris Murray: Out (Back) Scoot Henderson: Out (Hamstring) Matisse Thybulle: Out (Thumb) Blake Wesley: Out (Foot)
Betting outlook and odds considerations
With key scorers and playmakers sidelined on both sides, anticipate lower totals and a game dictated by bench scoring, turnovers and rebounding. Punters should consider the under or totals markets; if Houston’s depth looks healthier in the pregame, the Rockets to cover could be attractive. Always shop lines across sportsbooks and monitor late availability for Jrue Holiday and other day-to-day players before locking a bet.
Keys to the game
- Role-player scoring: With stars out, expect bench guards and wings to shoulder offensive loads. - Ball security and playmaking: Teams missing primary facilitators will be vulnerable to turnovers and cold stretches. - Rebounding and interior defense: Absence of bigs shifts emphasis to crashing the boards and second-chance points. - Matchup advantages: Coaches will exploit favorable small-ball or size mismatches depending on available rotations.
How to watch
Game scheduled for Jan. 9, 2026 at Moda Center. Check local broadcast listings or your preferred streaming and sportsbook apps for start time, live broadcasts and up-to-the-minute odds.
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