The New Orleans Pelicans and the Houston Rockets collide at the Toyota Center on Friday night.
New Orleans Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans have cooled off with three losses on the trot and they will be hoping for a better performance after getting thrashed by the Timberwolves in a 122-101 road loss on Wednesday. Brandon Ingram led the way with 24 points sand six assists, Jordan Hawkins added 14 points while Jerimiah Robinson-Earl chipped in with 11 points, nine rebounds and one assist. As a team, the Pelicans shot just 38 percent from the field and eight of 28 from the 3-point line as they got blown out by 44-20 in the second quarter and just couldn't recover. The Pelicans were shorthanded for this one with CJ McCollum and Zion Williamson both out.
Houston Rockets
Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets have been one the surprise teams in the league lately as they are now gunning for a fourth straight win after making light work of the Lakers in a 128-94 home win on Wednesday. Jalen Green led the team with 28 points on 11 of 15 shooting, Alperen Sengun added 19 points with seven rebounds and four assists while Jae'Sean Tate chipped in with 14 points off the bench. As a team, the Rockets shot 54 percent from the field and 14 of 33 from the 3-point line as they jumped all over the Lakers from the start, jumping out to an early double-digit lead which only grew as the game went on. The Rockets were already leading by 21 points at halftime, so they were able to rest their starters early in this one.
Matchup/League Facts
- The Rockets rank 1st in the league for Q3 opponent points per game this season (22.9).
- The Rockets ranks 30th in the league for pace this season (96.3).
- The Pelicans rank 30th in the league for opponent rebounds per game this season (50.3).
- The Pelicans rank 29th in the league for opponent offensive rebounds per game this season (13.5).
Peter's Pick
The Pelicans are shorthanded again with CJ McCollum rule out and Zion Williamson listed as questionable, while the Rockets are keeping an eye on Alperen Sengun who is questionable here. The Pelicans opened as favorites but have since moved out to slight underdogs which isn't too surprising given how well the Rockets have been playing recently. The Pelicans are a little banged up and struggling at the moment, so I'll back the Rockets to stay hot with another win and cover at home.