San Antonio Spurs vs Houston Rockets 24 October 2026 Prediction

San Antonio Spurs vs Houston Rockets brings together division rivals coming off different season openers. The Spurs lost at home to Oklahoma City 116-104 as Victor Wembanyama struggled from the field. Houston beat Dallas 128-110. Can Mitch Johnson adjust his approach against the Rockets?

Wembanyama Shoots 1-for-13 in Season Opener

San Antonio’s loss to Oklahoma City raised questions about its offense. After an altercation involving De’Aaron Fox and Chet Holmgren in the second quarter, the Spurs lost control of the game and fell behind by 26 points. Wembanyama missed his first 12 shots and finished 1-for-13 from the field, the worst shooting performance of his career.

Johnson’s three-guard lineup may have contributed to Wembanyama’s difficult night. Starting Fox, Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle gave San Antonio speed, but cost the team size and effective screen-setting. Oklahoma City pushed Wembanyama away from the basket, leaving him with difficult perimeter shots. He scored most of his points at the free-throw line.

San Antonio Spurs Predicted Lineup: Fox, Harper, Castle, Vassell, Wembanyama

Out: Kentans (injury)

Manager: Mitch Johnson

Houston Wins Its Season Opener

Houston beat Dallas 128-110, taking control with a 38-12 second quarter. Fred VanVleet’s return made a difference. The point guard recorded 11 assists without a turnover in 29 minutes and defended well against the Mavericks. He also helped create better looks for Houston’s shooters.

Alperen Sengun, Kevin Durant and Jabari Smith Jr. often had to create their own shots last season. With VanVleet directing the offense, the three combined for 83 points against Dallas. It is too early to draw conclusions about Houston’s title chances, but the Rockets looked strong in their opener. If they stay healthy, they have a chance to improve on last season’s first-round playoff exit against the Lakers, a series they lost 4-2.

Houston Rockets Predicted Lineup: VanVleet, Thompson, Durant, Smith Jr., Sengun

Out: No players listed

Manager: Ime Udoka

San Antonio Won Three of Four Meetings Last Season

San Antonio won three of its four games against Houston in the 2025-26 regular season, by scores of 121-110, 111-99 and 145-120. Its lone loss was 111-106.

San Antonio Spurs vs Houston Rockets Prediction: Houston Rockets Handicap +7.5

Main prediction: Despite losing its opener, San Antonio is a clear favorite with sportsbooks. Its three wins over Houston last season help explain the line, as does the Rockets’ inconsistency against weaker teams. Still, a comfortable Spurs win looks unlikely. Houston has the defenders to challenge San Antonio’s three-guard lineup, while Sengun can put pressure on Wembanyama inside. The pick is Houston Rockets +7.5 at 1.85.

Totals prediction: Three of last season’s four meetings finished with 231 combined points or fewer. After scoring 104 against Oklahoma City, San Antonio may put more emphasis on defense, and Houston should remain committed to its defensive approach. The pick is under 227.5 total points at 1.90.