Watch Trail Blazers Vs. Rockets: Streaming & TV Guide

# Where to Watch Portland Trail Blazers vs. Houston Rockets: A Complete Guide

The Portland Trail Blazers and Houston Rockets are set to face off, and fans across the country are wondering: where can I watch the game? This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to catch the action, whether you prefer to watch on TV or stream online.

## 1. Understanding Your Viewing Options

Before diving into specific channels and services, it's important to understand the different ways you can watch NBA games:

*   **National TV Broadcasts:** Games televised on national networks like ESPN, TNT, and ABC offer broad coverage.
*   **Regional Sports Networks (RSNs):** RSNs like ROOT SPORTS (for Blazers) and AT&T SportsNet Southwest (for Rockets) provide local coverage within their respective markets.
*   **Streaming Services:** Various streaming services offer access to national channels and some RSNs.
*   **NBA League Pass:** The NBA's official streaming service offers live and on-demand access to games, but blackout restrictions apply.

## 2. National TV Broadcasts: ESPN, TNT, and ABC

If the Trail Blazers vs. Rockets game is selected for national broadcast, you can watch it on:

*   **ESPN:** Check the ESPN schedule for game listings.
*   **TNT:** TNT often broadcasts NBA games on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
*   **ABC:** ABC typically airs NBA games on weekends.

### Finding the Game on National TV

Refer to the official NBA schedule and TV listings to confirm if the game will be broadcast nationally. TV providers also offer on-screen guides.

## 3. Regional Sports Networks: ROOT SPORTS and AT&T SportsNet Southwest

For fans in the Portland and Houston markets, the primary channels to watch the game are:

*   **ROOT SPORTS (Portland):** ROOT SPORTS is the regional broadcaster for the Trail Blazers. Check your local listings for the channel number.
*   **AT&T SportsNet Southwest (Houston):** This network carries the Houston Rockets games. Consult your cable provider for channel information.

### Accessing RSNs

To watch games on RSNs, you typically need a cable or satellite package that includes the channel. Some streaming services also offer RSN access (see section 4).

## 4. Streaming Services: Your Cord-Cutting Options

If you prefer streaming, several services offer access to NBA games:

*   **NBA League Pass:**
    *   The NBA's official streaming service.
    *   Offers live and on-demand games.
    *   Blackout restrictions apply to local games.
*   **YouTube TV:**
    *   Includes ESPN, TNT, ABC, and some RSNs.
    *   Check local availability for RSNs.
    *   Offers a free trial.
*   **Hulu + Live TV:**
    *   Includes ESPN, TNT, ABC, and some RSNs.
    *   Check local RSN availability.
    *   Bundles with Disney+ and ESPN+.
*   **Sling TV:**
    *   Offers different packages with ESPN, TNT, and select RSNs.
    *   More affordable options.
    *   Check channel availability based on your plan and location.
*   **DirecTV Stream:**
    *   Provides access to ESPN, TNT, ABC, and RSNs (depending on the package).
    *   More comprehensive RSN coverage.

### Comparing Streaming Services

Consider the following when choosing a streaming service:

*   **Channel Lineup:** Ensure the service includes the channels you need (ESPN, TNT, ABC, RSNs).
*   **Price:** Streaming services vary in cost. Compare monthly fees and promotional offers.
*   **Blackout Restrictions:** NBA League Pass has blackout restrictions for local games.
*   **Simultaneous Streams:** Check how many devices can stream at the same time.
*   **DVR Storage:** Look for services with DVR capabilities to record games.

## 5. NBA League Pass: A Deep Dive

NBA League Pass is a popular option for avid NBA fans. Here's a closer look:

*   **Pros:**
    *   Access to almost all NBA games live and on-demand.
    *   Multiple viewing options (mobile, web, TV).
    *   Game archives and replays.
    *   Different subscription tiers available.
*   **Cons:**
    *   Blackout restrictions apply to local games (games broadcast on your RSN are blacked out).
    *   Can be more expensive than other streaming options.

### Understanding Blackout Restrictions

Blackout restrictions are crucial to understand when considering NBA League Pass. If the Trail Blazers vs. Rockets game is televised on ROOT SPORTS or AT&T SportsNet Southwest in your local market, it will be blacked out on NBA League Pass.

## 6. Using a VPN to Bypass Blackouts

Some fans use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to bypass blackout restrictions on NBA League Pass. However, this practice violates the terms of service and is not officially endorsed. Always check the terms of service before using a VPN.

## 7. Free Options and Over-the-Air Broadcasts

*   **Over-the-Air TV:** If the game is broadcast on ABC, you can watch it for free with a digital antenna.
*   **Free Trials:** Some streaming services offer free trials. Use these to watch the game, but remember to cancel before the trial ends to avoid charges.

## 8. Social Media and Game Updates

If you can't watch the game live, follow these resources for updates:

*   **NBA Official App:** The NBA app provides real-time scores, highlights, and news.
*   **Team Social Media:** Follow the Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) and Rockets (@HoustonRockets) on social media for updates.
*   **Sports Websites:** ESPN, Bleacher Report, and other sports sites offer live scores and game recaps.

## 9. Checking the Official NBA Schedule

The most reliable way to find out where to watch the game is by consulting the official NBA schedule. You can find it on NBA.com or through the NBA app. The schedule lists national broadcasts and provides links to TV listings.

## 10. Troubleshooting Common Issues

*   **Streaming Problems:** Check your internet connection and streaming service status.
*   **Blackout Issues:** Verify your location and blackout restrictions for NBA League Pass.
*   **Channel Availability:** Contact your cable or streaming provider to confirm channel availability in your area.

## FAQ Section

### 1. Will the Trail Blazers vs. Rockets game be on national TV?

Check the official NBA schedule and TV listings to confirm national broadcast details on ESPN, TNT, or ABC.

### 2. How can I watch the game if I live in Portland?

ROOT SPORTS is the regional broadcaster for the Trail Blazers. You can access it through a cable/satellite package or select streaming services.

### 3. Is NBA League Pass worth it?

If you're an avid NBA fan who wants to watch out-of-market games, NBA League Pass is a good option. However, be aware of blackout restrictions.

### 4. Can I use a VPN to bypass NBA League Pass blackouts?

Using a VPN violates the terms of service for NBA League Pass and is not officially endorsed.

### 5. What streaming services carry RSNs?

YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream carry some RSNs. Check local availability.

### 6. How do I find the channel number for ROOT SPORTS or AT&T SportsNet Southwest?

Consult your cable or satellite provider's channel guide or online listings.

### 7. What are the blackout restrictions for NBA League Pass?

Games broadcast on your local RSN are blacked out on NBA League Pass.

## Conclusion

Watching the Portland Trail Blazers vs. Houston Rockets game is easy if you know your options. Whether through national TV, regional sports networks, or streaming services, this guide provides the information you need. Always check the official NBA schedule for the most accurate broadcast details and enjoy the game!