PHOENIX -- Dillon Brooks had a great first performance against his former team with the Phoenix Suns Monday night, but he did not get the final result he had hoped for. Brooks posted a game-high 29 points against the Houston Rockets, but the Suns (11-7) fell 114-92 in their worst offensive showing of the season.

In the midst of a career year, Brooks still brings the "invaluable" skill of the guy you love to see on the court — if he's on your team.

My Rockets vs. Suns predictions and free NBA picks call for Phoenix to cover with Durant absent. The Houston Rockets have won five of six to get to 10-4 on the season, but the Phoenix Suns are not that far behind them at 11-6.

Preview the Houston Rockets' NBA matchup with Phoenix, including betting odds, tips, trends, and game information.

PHOENIX -- The injury bug has hit Phoenix yet again, forcing the Suns to roll out the following starting lineup against the Houston Rockets:

The Atlanta Hawks and Washington Wizards meet Tuesday in an Eastern Conference battle at Capital One Arena in Washington D.C.