Portland at Houston

The Portland Trailblazers have opened the season at 7-5. While they are 3-2 in their last five games, they are playing well under the line, as they have failed to cover in any of them. They have won just one game straight-up on the season as an underdog. They have failed to cover in those last five games by 60 total points, or by 12 points per game. It's needless to say that this team is playing below their expected level. The Rockets are playing at a much better rate, covering four of their last five and six of their last eight. The Rockets are also winning the games they are supposed to win at 4-0 SU on the season from pick-'em to favorite. Portland has shot less than 40% in three of their last four games, and that won't get it done on the road. Play Houston on the moneyline.