In an exciting Western Conference battle, the New Orleans Pelicans are set to face off against the Houston Rockets. This matchup is crucial for both teams in their pursuit of playoff positioning.
Game Preview: New Orleans Pelicans vs. Houston Rockets
The New Orleans Pelicans, currently sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference with a record of 10-34, will take on the Houston Rockets, who are fifth with a 24-15 record. This game is scheduled for Sunday at 7 p.m. EST in Houston.
Current Form and Team Statistics
The Pelicans have struggled significantly against Western Conference opponents, registering just four wins in 28 games. In contrast, the Rockets have shown competitive form, winning five of their last ten games.
- Rockets: 5-5 in the last 10 games, averaging 107.5 points per game.
- Pelicans: 2-8 in the last 10 games, averaging 113.3 points per game.
Key Players to Watch
Several players are making headlines from both teams:
- Houston Rockets:
- Kevin Durant: 26.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.5 assists per game.
- Amen Thompson: 20.9 points, 8.6 rebounds, shooting 51.4% over the last ten games.
- New Orleans Pelicans:
- Trey Murphy III: 22.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.6 steals per game.
- Zion Williamson: 23.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists in last ten games.
Rebounding and Shooting Statistics
Rebounding will be a focal point in this matchup. The Rockets lead the NBA with 49.2 rebounds per game, driven by Alperen Sengun’s average of 9.2. Conversely, the Pelicans rank seventh in offensive rebounding with 12.4 per game.
In terms of shooting, the Rockets have a field goal percentage of 47.8%, slightly lower than the Pelicans’ defensive average of 48.6%. The Pelicans are shooting at 46.5%, which is marginally better than the 46.2% allowed by the Rockets.
Injury Updates
Injury concerns will impact both sides:
- Houston Rockets:
- Fred VanVleet: Out for the season due to ACL injury.
- Tari Eason: Out with an ankle injury.
- New Orleans Pelicans:
- Jose Alvarado: Out (oblique).
- Dejounte Murray: Out (leg).
- Herbert Jones: Day-to-day (ankle).
Previous Encounter
These two teams have already met once this season. The Pelicans claimed victory in a tight contest, winning 133-128 in overtime on December 19.
This upcoming game is not just another regular season matchup. It’s a critical encounter that could influence playoff scenarios in the competitive Western Conference.
