New Orleans Pelicans
Home Team
VS
Houston Rockets
Away Team
Key Prediction Insights
The Houston Rockets are favored to win with a probability of 78.1%. The predicted scoreline suggests a close contest, with the Houston Rockets expected to score 114.5 points against the New Orleans Pelicans' 109.5 points. The Pelicans' expected starting lineup features CJ McCollum, Dejounte Murray, Herbert Jones, Trey Murphy III, and Yves Missi. The Rockets will likely start Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Sengun.
Game Analysis
In their last three games, the New Orleans Pelicans have hit a rough patch, losing all three contests. Their most recent performances include a narrow 129-132 loss to the Denver Nuggets and a previous defeat to the Houston Rockets with a score of 113-133. This recent streak highlights some defensive vulnerabilities, as reflected in the high opponent scores. The Pelicans' starting lineup shows varying offensive ratings, with Yves Missi having the highest at 116.2, but a concerning defensive trend as most players have defensive ratings above 110.
On the flip side, the Houston Rockets have been riding a wave of success, securing wins against the Hornets, Raptors, and a decisive victory against the Pelicans. Their lineup boasts solid offensive capabilities, particularly with Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr. leading high offensive ratings of 117.0 and 120.0, respectively. Defensively, the Rockets seem more robust, with most players maintaining a defensive rating below 110, which could be crucial in maintaining their winning streak.
Final Prediction
The Houston Rockets have a clear advantage, thanks to their recent form and strong defensive stats among their starting five. The key factor to watch will be how the Pelicans' defense responds to the Rockets' dynamic offense, particularly in containing the likes of Sengun and Smith Jr. This matchup promises intensity, with Houston looking to extend their winning streak against a determined Pelicans side seeking redemption.