By: Kim Smith Published 01/18/2026, 06:10 AM ET 
The New Orleans Pelicans travel to Texas to face the Houston Rockets on Sunday night at Toyota Center in Houston. This matchup is set for a 7:00 PM EST tip-off and will be available on Gulf Coast Sports, NBA League Pass, Pelicans.com, and Space City Home Network. At the time of publication, the money line, spread, and total are all off the board, but this Western Conference matchup still offers clear angles based on form and efficiency. Before placing any wagers, make sure to check out our free NBA picks for updated odds and expert analysis.
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Terms & Conditions Pelicans Still Searching for Momentum on the Road
New Orleans enters this contest with a 10-34 overall record and has struggled mightily away from home this season. Over their last five games, the Pelicans have recently lost to the Pacers, Nuggets, and Magic, while picking up wins over the Nets and Wizards. That stretch highlights the inconsistency that has defined their season, particularly on the defensive end.
From a statistical standpoint, the Pelicans are averaging 115.0 points per game while allowing 122.3 points per game, one of the highest defensive marks in the league. They are shooting 46% from the field, pulling down 43.4 rebounds per game, and averaging 24.8 assists per contest. Defensively, New Orleans adds 4.4 blocks and 8.8 steals per game, but those numbers have not translated into stops when it matters most.
The biggest challenge for New Orleans has been defense in transition and at the rim. When games speed up, the Pelicans struggle to recover, and that often leads to extended scoring runs by opponents. Against a Houston team that thrives on pace and physicality, those weaknesses are magnified.
Rockets Using Balance and Defense to Protect Home Court
Houston comes into Sunday night with a 24-15 overall record and has been solid at home this season. In their last five games, the Rockets have recently won over the Timberwolves and Bulls, while suffering losses to the Thunder, Kings, and Trail Blazers. Even in losses, Houston has remained competitive, particularly on the defensive glass.
Statistically, the Rockets are averaging 117.1 points per game while allowing 110.7 points per contest. Houston shoots 48% from the field, dominates the glass with 49.2 rebounds per game, and averages 24.7 assists per game. They also contribute 5.5 blocks and 8.6 steals per contest, reflecting their aggressive defensive style.
Houston’s rebounding advantage is a major factor in this matchup. The Rockets consistently generate second-chance opportunities while limiting opponents to one shot, which is especially effective against teams that struggle defensively like New Orleans.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Houston Rockets PickNew Orleans Pelicans vs Houston Rockets Pick
With the spread not yet available, I lean toward Houston in this matchup. The Rockets are the more complete team, particularly on defense and the glass, and they are playing at home against a Pelicans squad that has struggled to string together strong performances. Houston’s physical style should wear down New Orleans over four quarters.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Houston Rockets Total Pick
I also lean toward the over once a total is posted. Both teams are capable of scoring in transition, and New Orleans’ defensive inefficiency often pushes games into higher totals. Houston’s offensive balance should keep points flowing throughout the night.
Final Score Prediction: Houston Rockets 121, New Orleans Pelicans 112
This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Saturday.
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