Rockets Headed to Philly, Desperate for a Win on the Road

Rockets set to hit the road again, starting off a short two game eastern conference trip with a matchup against the Sixers. After a much needed 4-1 stretch at home, only losing to the Thunder, it’s time to carry that momentum to The City of Brotherly Love. 

Gutting out a clutch win against the Spurs on Tuesday could be a significant confidence booster. Defeating their longtime divisional rival tied the season series at one game apiece, and pushed Houston up to 4th in the conference standings. 

Currently sitting only a half game above the Lakers, Suns, and Timberwolves, a Rockets win would guarantee they remain in that coveted 4th seed. Something that should be a high priority for Houston this season. 

More than half of the way through this season, the Rockets have struggled with an 11-12 record on the road. A majority of their wins take place in the Toyota Center, with a 15-3 home record. Having four more wins through five less games shows how drastic that advantage has been.  

Coincidentally, Philly’s record in their home arena matches Houston’s road record of 11-12. So despite the Sixers potentially overachieving this season, it’s still a very beatable opponent on their home court. They've only won one out of the four games on their current stretch at home. 

Seemingly a perfect way to start the road trip: a chance to bring the team back to .500 away from home, as well as further solidifying their place in the 4th seed. A fourth straight win, and their first road win since New Year’s Day.

There's surprisingly a lot to play for on a random Thursday night in January, so hopefully these Rockets can pull out another win.