Rockets Seek Redemption Against Knicks Amidst Clutch Struggles
The Houston Rockets, once known for their clutch performances, have struggled significantly in tight games this season. With a 19-22 record in clutch situations—defined as games within five points with five minutes remaining—the Rockets currently have the worst turnover rate in the league at 1.6. Their recent performance includes a heartbreaking 110-108 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, where they squandered a 13-point lead in overtime, marking the largest comeback in NBA history for an overtime game. In another disappointing outing last month, the Rockets led the New York Knicks by 18 points in the fourth quarter, only to fall short, losing 108-106 at Madison Square Garden. As they prepare to face the Knicks again on Tuesday in Houston, the stakes are high. The New York Knicks, boasting a 48-27 record, are fighting to maintain their position as the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, just one game ahead of the Cleveland Cavaliers. The matchup promises to be intense, with the Rockets favored by 1.5 points. Recent trends show that both teams have struggled defensively, with the Knicks ranking 25th in defensive rating over their last three games. The SportsLine Projection Model suggests a high-scoring affair, predicting a 62.4% chance that the combined score will exceed 218 points, assigning an A grade to the over/under set at 217.5. Beyond the Rockets-Knicks showdown, six other NBA games and a full MLB schedule provide ample viewing options. Notable games include the Cavaliers facing the Lakers, where the SportsLine Model favors Cleveland with a 60.0% chance to cover a +2.5 spread. The Los Angeles Clippers will also compete against the Portland Trail Blazers, with a 64.0% chance to cover a -5.5 spread. In MLB, the Philadelphia Phillies will see pitching prospect Andrew Painter making his debut against the Washington Nationals, while the New York Yankees take on the Seattle Mariners later in the evening.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-03-31