Memphis Grizzlies vs Houston Rockets Picks and Prediction for Sunday, April 12, 2026
Use Code WWWC The Memphis Grizzlies visit the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on Sunday, April 12, at 8:30 PM ET on Space City Home Network. Memphis is 25-56, 12th in the Western Conference and eliminated from playoff contention, while Houston is 51-30, fifth in the West and has already secured a playoff spot. This is the final game of the regular season for both teams. The Grizzlies lost 147-101 to the Jazz in their most recent game, while the Rockets fell 136-132 to the Timberwolves. Cash in a winner using our free NBA Picks.
Memphis Grizzlies Struggling on Defense
The Grizzlies are coming off a 147-101 loss to Utah, extending their losing streak to five games. Memphis has not been competitive during this stretch, losing each game by at least 14 points and allowing 128 or more points in four of those contests. That trend highlights ongoing defensive issues that have defined much of the season.
Memphis is averaging 115.0 points per game but allowing 120.5, which has made it difficult to stay in games. Cedric Coward leads the team with 13.6 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, while Cam Spencer contributes 5.6 assists. The offense has shown the ability to score, but it has not been enough to offset defensive struggles.
The Grizzlies average 27.9 assists per game, which shows some ball movement, but that has not translated into consistent results. Opponents have taken advantage of defensive breakdowns, creating open looks and controlling games early. When Memphis falls behind, it has struggled to respond.
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The recent losses have also exposed issues with rebounding and interior defense. Opponents are consistently winning second-chance opportunities, which has added to the scoring problems. Against a strong Houston team, this becomes a difficult matchup.
Injuries: Cam Spencer, Game-Time Decision, Olivier-Maxence Prosper, Game-Time Decision, GG Jackson, Game-Time Decision, Taylor Hendricks, Game-Time Decision, Cedric Coward, Game-Time Decision, Ja Morant, Out
Houston Rockets are Tough at Home
The Rockets lost 136-132 to Minnesota in their most recent game, but had won four straight before that. Houston has been one of the stronger teams in the Western Conference and has been especially effective at home, where it holds a 29-11 record.
Houston is averaging 114.8 points per game while allowing 110.1, giving it a clear edge over Memphis on both ends. Kevin Durant leads the team with an average of 26.0 points per game, providing a reliable scoring option. Alperen Sengun adds 20.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists, making him one of the most versatile players on the roster.
The Rockets also get strong contributions from Amen Thompson, who averages 18.3 points and 7.8 rebounds, along with consistent support from players like Jabari Smith Jr. and Reed Sheppard. This balance allows Houston to generate scoring from multiple positions and maintain offensive consistency.
Defensively, Houston has been more effective than Memphis, limiting opponents to 110.1 points per game. The Rockets also control the boards, averaging 48.0 rebounds per game, which helps limit second-chance opportunities. At home, that combination has led to consistent winning results.
Injuries: Steven Adams, Out, Fred VanVleet, Out
Memphis Grizzlies vs Houston Rockets Spread Pick
- Houston
Houston has a clear advantage in this matchup due to overall performance, defensive consistency, and home-court advantage. The Rockets are the better team on both ends and have shown they can control games against weaker opponents. Memphis has struggled to stay competitive during its current losing streak, particularly on defense. The Grizzlies have had their roster decimated by injuries and trades. With Houston playing at home and holding advantages across key areas, the Rockets will control this game and cover.
Memphis Grizzlies vs Houston Rockets Over/Under Pick
- Over
This matchup will result in plenty of points being scored. Memphis allows 120.5 points per game and has struggled to limit opponents, while Houston has multiple scoring options capable of taking advantage of the Grizzlies’ lack of defensive presence. Memphis, on the offense, will contribute enough to help push the point total over on Sunday.
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