The Houston Rockets are definitely one of the biggest surprises I ever expected to see this season, for the better. Personally I do not like to talk negatively about any professional, so without using a name, I think Houston made a great move getting rid of a player I felt was nothing more than a selfish negative. Now the Rockets seem to have developed a surprising chemistry, led by a real pro facilitator. Oddsmakers must agree with me to a degree as it is reflecting in their opening number tonight. The Utah Jazz got off to a relatively slow start and I expect them to put things together as time goes on. But we can't live in the future so tonight I feel the Rockets carry all the advantages with the exception of being the visitors. Take HOUSTON -1 1/2