The Houston Rockets were up five points after one quarter, but coach Ime Udoka did not like what he saw. The Rockets were being out-rebounded and outscored in the paint by the Denver Nuggets, who were missing three-time MVP Nikola Jokić.

Wednesday’s meeting between the Rockets and Nuggets (+1.5) is the first between the longtime Western Conference foes since four matchups in late 2023.

The Rockets have won four in a row most recently knocking off the Grizzlies Monday Night at home. Jalen Green led Houston with a career-high 42 points. Denver has also won four straight. Last night the Nuggets routed the Mavericks in Dallas, 118-99. Jamal Murray had his biggest game of the season pouring in 45 points for the Nuggets.

Going into Wednesday night, the anticipation between the Denver Nuggets game against the Houston Rockets was huge. Both teams are on a four-game winning streak

Denver was dealt an unexpected blow an hour before opening tip Wednesday when Nikola Jokic was ruled out due to right elbow inflammation.

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic and forward Aaron Gordon are not playing in the team's home game against the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night.