Taking to the road could be the best thing for the Rockets. After upsetting the Bucks and Suns to open their homestand, the Rockets proceeded to lose their next five games. Note, though, that three of those defeats were by six or fewer points.

Having had Christmas weekend off, I look for the Rockets to be fresh and primed for a strong effort. They draw the Bulls at an opportune time.

Chicago returns home off three straight wins and covers on the road against the Heat, Hawks and Knicks with the latter two coming in buzzer-beater fashion. The Bulls host the Bucks on Wednesday. So this not only is a flat spot for the Bulls, but also a look-ahead spot.

Chicago is 1-6 ATS the past seven times it has been chalk since Nov. 18. The Bulls also have failed to cover six of their last eight home contests.