Thunder at Rockets: Live stream, how to watch, TV channel, start time

The Houston Rockets host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night in the opening game of the NBA’s 2020-21 regular season for both teams. If you’re wondering how you can watch the action live, you’ve come to the right place.

The Rockets and Thunder last met in Game 7 in the first round of the 2020 Western Conference playoffs, which Houston won in a thriller to advance. Since then, however, the Thunder have moved into a rebuilding phase by trading veterans such as Chris Paul, Dennis Schroder, and Steven Adams. Meanwhile, Danilo Gallinari left in free agency.

Among numerous offseason changes, the Rockets have since swapped out two starters, going from Robert Covington and Russell Westbrook to Christian Wood and John Wall. They also have a new coaching staff, with Stephen Silas leading the way instead of Mike D’Antoni.

Here’s when you should tune in to see the third preseason game:

• Date: Wednesday, Dec. 23

• Time: 7 p.m. Central

• TV Channel: AT&T SportsNet Southwest

• Live stream: fuboTV in Houston markets (watch for free)

The Rockets went 3-1 in the 2020-21 preseason, while the Thunder were 1-2. Both teams had identical 44-28 records last season, tied for No. 4 in the West. However, Oklahoma City has lower expectations entering the new NBA season based on their offseason moves.

Probable starting lineups

Houston Rockets

• Guard: John Wall

• Guard: James Harden

• Forward: Danuel House Jr.

• Forward: PJ Tucker

• Center: Christian Wood

Oklahoma City Thunder

• Guard: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

• Guard: Luguentz Dort

• Forward: Justin Jackson

• Forward: Darius Bazley

• Center: Al Horford

The Rockets are one of a small number of NBA teams welcoming in-arena fans, with attendance of up to 4,500 expected at Toyota Center. Houston enters Wednesday’s game favored by 7.5 points.

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