Rockets Defeat 76ers 113-102 in Crucial Matchup
Thursday, April 9, 2026, 8:00 PM ET · Toyota Center (Houston)
Houston Rockets 113, Philadelphia 76ers 102, final. Our NBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
The next free pick, for your email
Team, bet, price and the hash it was sealed under, on this page the moment you send. Lose or win, it stays public.
or by email
Public record of the main pick, losses included: 115 won, 44 lost. See every pick
One free pick a day by email until you unsubscribe, in one click. 21+.
Quick answers
Who won Philadelphia 76ers vs Houston Rockets?
Houston Rockets beat Philadelphia 76ers 113-102 at Toyota Center (Houston) on April 9, 2026.
Who was favored in Philadelphia 76ers vs Houston Rockets?
Houston Rockets were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -258 (about 72% implied). The favorite won.
The Houston Rockets secured a 113-102 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, taking a 2-1 lead in their series. This matchup was particularly significant as both teams were vying for momentum in the playoffs, and the series was tied at 1-1 prior to this game. The Rockets, boasting a home record of 51-29, showcased their strength at the Toyota Center, where they maintained an impressive home winning streak of seven games leading into this contest.
In terms of recent form, the Rockets have been in excellent shape, winning eight of their last ten games with an average of 121.4 points scored and 110.9 points allowed. Their last five games saw them winning all five, averaging 121.2 points while allowing only 106.8. This strong performance at home, where they have a perfect 4-0 record in their last four games, has solidified their status as a formidable opponent. Conversely, the 76ers have struggled recently, losing their last two games and posting a 6-4 record over their last ten outings. They averaged 121.5 points scored but allowed 119.2 points during this stretch, indicating defensive vulnerabilities that have cost them in crucial moments.
The Rockets' home advantage was evident in their performance, and they managed to capitalize on it effectively. The 76ers, on the other hand, faced challenges in their away games, with a mixed record of 2-2 in their last four. Their recent struggles included a loss to the San Antonio Spurs and a defeat against the Detroit Pistons, which contributed to their current two-game losing streak.
In terms of head-to-head matchups, the Rockets have won two of the last three encounters against the 76ers. Their previous meeting this season on January 23, 2026, ended in a loss for the Rockets, but they rebounded with a win at home on March 18, 2025. The Rockets' ability to perform well in this series has been crucial, as they have consistently shown resilience against the 76ers.
Injuries played a role in the game, with several key players listed as day-to-day. For the Rockets, Kevin Durant, Fred VanVleet, and Steven Adams were all uncertain due to ankle and knee issues. The 76ers also had a notable absence with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope dealing with a finger injury. The status of these players could have significant implications for future matchups, as their contributions are vital for both teams.
The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, had the Rockets favored by 6.5 points, with a total set at 226.5. The odds indicated a strong belief in the Rockets' ability to perform at home, reflected in their moneyline of -258. Meanwhile, the 76ers were listed at +210 on the moneyline, suggesting they were viewed as underdogs in this matchup.
Conditions during the game were conducive to a high-scoring affair, with both teams capable of offensive explosions. The Rockets' scoring prowess was on display, particularly in the fourth quarter, where they managed to maintain their lead despite a late push from the 76ers. Key moments included a 24-foot three-point jumper from Kevin Durant that helped to extend their lead, and a running dunk from Jabari Smith Jr. that capped off the scoring for the Rockets.
As the game progressed, the Rockets' defense held strong against the 76ers' attempts to close the gap, showcasing their ability to execute under pressure. The final score of 113-102 reflects the Rockets' dominance, especially in the second half, where they effectively managed the clock and their lead.
Overall, this matchup highlighted the Rockets' home dominance and their ability to perform under playoff pressure, while the 76ers will need to regroup and address their defensive issues as they look forward to the next game in the series.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | HOU -6.5 | 226.5 o -108 / u -112 | Philadelphia 76ers +210 · Houston Rockets -258 |
Injury report
- Kevin DurantDay-To-DayAnkleHouston Rockets
- Fred VanVleetDay-To-DayKneeHouston Rockets
- Steven AdamsDay-To-DayAnkleHouston Rockets
- Kentavious Caldwell-PopeDay-To-DayFingerPhiladelphia 76ers
Leaders
- PointsKevin Durant29Houston Rockets
- AssistsKevin Durant5Houston Rockets
- ReboundsAlperen Sengun12Houston Rockets
- PointsTyrese Maxey24Philadelphia 76ers
- AssistsVJ Edgecombe8Philadelphia 76ers
- ReboundsAndre Drummond15Philadelphia 76ers
Recent form
Houston Rockets
Last 10: 8-2Streak W7121.4 scored · 110.9 allowed per game4-0 at home
- W119-105at Phoenix SunsApr 8
- W117-116at Golden State WarriorsApr 6
- W140-106vs Utah JazzApr 4
- W119-113vs Milwaukee BucksApr 2
- W111-94vs New York KnicksApr 1
- W134-102at New Orleans PelicansMar 29
- W119-109at Memphis GrizzliesMar 28
- L108-110at Minnesota TimberwolvesMar 26
- L124-132at Chicago BullsMar 24
- W123-122vs Miami HeatMar 22
Philadelphia 76ers
Last 10: 6-4Streak L2121.5 scored · 119.2 allowed per game4-2 away
- L102-115at San Antonio SpursApr 7
- L93-116vs Detroit PistonsApr 4
- W115-103vs Minnesota TimberwolvesApr 3
- W153-131at Washington WizardsApr 1
- L109-119at Miami HeatMar 30
- W118-114at Charlotte HornetsMar 28
- W157-137vs Chicago BullsMar 25
- L103-123vs Oklahoma City ThunderMar 23
- W126-116at Utah JazzMar 22
- W139-118at Sacramento KingsMar 20
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | - | 26 | W2 | .683 | 56 |
| New York | 3 | 29 | L1 | .646 | 53 |
| Toronto | 10 | 36 | W1 | .561 | 46 |
| Philadelphia | 11 | 37 | W2 | .549 | 45 |
| Brooklyn | 36 | 62 | L3 | .244 | 20 |
| San Antonio | - | 20 | L1 | .756 | 62 |
| Houston | 10 | 30 | W1 | .634 | 52 |
| New Orleans | 36 | 56 | L2 | .317 | 26 |
| Dallas | 36 | 56 | W1 | .317 | 26 |
| Memphis | 37 | 57 | L8 | .305 | 25 |
Box score
| Stat | Philadelphia 76ers | Houston Rockets |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 38-85 | 42-93 |
| Field goal % | 45 | 45 |
| Three-pointers | 11-32 | 11-32 |
| Three-point % | 34 | 34 |
| Free throws | 15-23 | 18-26 |
| Free throw % | 65 | 69 |
| Rebounds | 47 | 53 |
| Offensive rebounds | 11 | 16 |
| Defensive rebounds | 36 | 37 |
| Assists | 21 | 21 |
| Steals | 10 | 12 |
| Blocks | 6 | 1 |
| Turnovers | 16 | 15 |
| Team turnovers | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 0 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 22 | 13 |
| Fast-break points | 12 | 14 |
| Points in the paint | 48 | 52 |
| Fouls | 24 | 18 |
| Largest lead | 2 | 28 |
| Lead changes | 7 | 7 |
| Time in front | 3 | 93 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter57-81Amen Thompson makes 1-foot dunk (Josh Okogie assists)
- 3rd Quarter58-81VJ Edgecombe makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter61-81Tyrese Maxey makes 27-foot three point step back jumpshot (VJ Edgecombe assists)
- 3rd Quarter61-83Jabari Smith Jr. makes 1-foot layup (Josh Okogie assists)
- 3rd Quarter61-85Amen Thompson makes 1-foot running dunk
- 3rd Quarter63-85Kelly Oubre Jr. makes driving layup (Andre Drummond assists)
- 3rd Quarter63-88Tari Eason makes 24-foot three point jumper (Kevin Durant assists)
- 3rd Quarter66-88Tyrese Maxey makes 24-foot three point jumper (Andre Drummond assists)
- 3rd Quarter66-90Kevin Durant makes 12-foot two point shot
- 3rd Quarter66-91Clint Capela makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter66-92Kevin Durant makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter66-93Kevin Durant makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter68-93Quentin Grimes makes 3-foot two point shot (Tyrese Maxey assists)
- 3rd Quarter68-96Tari Eason makes 23-foot three point jumper (Amen Thompson assists)
- 3rd Quarter70-96Quentin Grimes makes 13-foot step back jumpshot (Andre Drummond assists)
- 3rd Quarter73-96VJ Edgecombe makes 25-foot three pointer
- 4th Quarter74-96Quentin Grimes makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter74-99Jabari Smith Jr. makes 23-foot three point jumper (Amen Thompson assists)
- 4th Quarter76-99Quentin Grimes makes 17-foot step back jumpshot
- 4th Quarter78-99VJ Edgecombe makes 23-foot step back jumpshot
- 4th Quarter78-101Amen Thompson makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter80-101Quentin Grimes makes 3-foot reverse layup (Andre Drummond assists)
- 4th Quarter82-101Quentin Grimes makes 2-foot running dunk
- 4th Quarter84-101Justin Edwards makes 11-foot driving floating jump shot (VJ Edgecombe assists)
- 4th Quarter86-101Dominick Barlow makes tip in dunk
- 4th Quarter87-101Quentin Grimes makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter88-101Quentin Grimes makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter90-101Andre Drummond makes 1-foot dunk (VJ Edgecombe assists)
- 4th Quarter92-101Quentin Grimes makes 9-foot fade away jump shot (VJ Edgecombe assists)
- 4th Quarter94-101Justin Edwards makes tip shot
- 4th Quarter94-104Kevin Durant makes 23-foot three point jumper (Aaron Holiday assists)
- 4th Quarter94-107Aaron Holiday makes 23-foot three point jumper (Kevin Durant assists)
- 4th Quarter95-107Andre Drummond makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter97-107Tyrese Maxey makes two point shot (VJ Edgecombe assists)
- 4th Quarter98-107VJ Edgecombe makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter100-107VJ Edgecombe makes driving layup (Tyrese Maxey assists)
- 4th Quarter102-107VJ Edgecombe makes 12-foot pullup jump shot
- 4th Quarter102-110Kevin Durant makes 24-foot three point jumper (Alperen Sengun assists)
- 4th Quarter102-111Amen Thompson makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter102-113Jabari Smith Jr. makes 2-foot running dunk (Tari Eason assists)
Win probability
Above the line favours Houston Rockets, below favours Philadelphia 76ers.
Venue
- Toyota Center (Houston)Houston, TX
- Attendance18055
- OfficialsZach Zarba, Eric Dalen, Intae Hwang
Elsewhere
- 2026 NBA free agency: Grades for offseason signings, extensions
- Stephen A. rips NBA for not giving Kawhi a more severe punishment
- 2026 NBA buzz: Latest free agency and trade updates
- Sources: Rockets' Amen Thompson agrees to 5-year, $208M extension
- 'The Hoop Collective': Episodes of Brian Windhorst's NBA podcast
- Windhorst: Kawhi is an 'unmitigated winner' following NBA's punishments
Picks for NBA
NBA rules and settlement
These two, other days
- 76ers Edge Rockets in Overtime ThrillerJan 22, 2026